Did Lieutenant Columbo don his signature raincoat in his first-ever on-screen appearance, the 1968 TV movie “Prescription: Murder”? The answer, surprisingly, is no. While the rumpled trench coat became synonymous with Peter Falk’s portrayal of the detective, it was notably absent from this initial outing.
The Genesis of an Icon: Columbo Before the Coat
“Prescription: Murder,” based on the stage play of the same name, introduced audiences to the deceptively disheveled detective. But this Columbo was slightly different. He lacked several of the characteristics that would define the later series. In this early iteration, Columbo is sharper, less obviously bumbling, and notably, not wearing the famous raincoat.
Instead, he sports a dark overcoat. While similar in silhouette to the eventual trench coat, it’s clearly a different garment. This overcoat contributes to a slightly more formal, though still understated, appearance compared to the instantly recognizable Columbo look. The absence of the raincoat highlights the evolution of the character from his initial depiction to the beloved, fully formed persona we know and love. This evolution wasn’t just about the clothes, but also the nuances in Falk’s performance and the writers’ understanding of Columbo’s brilliance.
Tracing the Trench Coat: When Did Columbo Adopt the Look?
The raincoat’s first official appearance came with the first episode of the series, “Murder by the Book”, in 1971, when it was used as a distinctive clue that would have been known to the audience. From there, it essentially became Columbo’s uniform.
The Importance of Visual Cues: Creating a Lasting Impression
The choice to incorporate the raincoat proved to be a stroke of genius. It served as a powerful visual cue, instantly communicating Columbo’s character: unpretentious, persistent, and seemingly oblivious to the niceties of high society that often surrounded the wealthy murderers he pursued.
Examining “Prescription: Murder” in Detail
While the raincoat is absent, “Prescription: Murder” provides valuable insights into the genesis of Columbo’s character. We see the early seeds of his manipulative tactics, his keen observation skills, and his seemingly endless curiosity.
Columbo’s Methods: Subtle Interrogation and Persistence
Even without the iconic trench coat, Columbo’s methods of operation are largely present. His persistent questioning, his ability to disarm suspects with seemingly innocent inquiries, and his knack for spotting inconsistencies remain central to his character, showcasing his inherent, not clothes-dependent, brilliance.
The Initial Reception: A Glimpse of Columbo’s Popularity
“Prescription: Murder” was a resounding success, paving the way for the series. Its popularity demonstrated the potential of the Columbo character, even in his relatively unrefined state.
Columbo FAQs: Delving Deeper into the Detective’s World
Here are some frequently asked questions about Columbo, his style, and his enduring legacy:
FAQ 1: What type of coat does Columbo wear in “Prescription: Murder”?
He wears a dark overcoat, not the signature raincoat/trench coat commonly associated with the character. It’s a heavier, more structured garment, contributing to a slightly different overall impression.
FAQ 2: Why is the raincoat so important to Columbo’s character?
The raincoat became a symbol of Columbo’s unpretentiousness, his connection to the working class, and his deliberate disregard for appearances. It contrasted sharply with the often-elegant surroundings of his investigations, highlighting his outsider status.
FAQ 3: Where did Peter Falk find the raincoat?
The story varies slightly, but the prevailing account suggests that Peter Falk found the raincoat at a second-hand store. He chose it himself, feeling it perfectly captured the character’s essence.
FAQ 4: Did Columbo ever wear a different coat in any other episodes?
While the raincoat was his signature attire, there were rare instances where he wore other outerwear, often due to specific weather conditions or plot requirements. However, these were exceptions to the rule.
FAQ 5: What brand was Columbo’s raincoat?
The exact brand of the raincoat remains a mystery, adding to its mystique. It was likely an inexpensive, off-the-rack item, perfectly fitting Columbo’s persona.
FAQ 6: How did the raincoat contribute to Columbo’s success?
The raincoat was a crucial element in establishing Columbo’s unique visual identity. It made him instantly recognizable and helped reinforce his image as an unconventional detective who relied on his intellect rather than his appearance.
FAQ 7: Was the raincoat always clean?
Absolutely not! Part of the raincoat’s charm was its disheveled state. It was often stained, rumpled, and generally looked like it had seen better days, further emphasizing Columbo’s disregard for superficiality.
FAQ 8: Did Peter Falk wear the same raincoat throughout the entire series?
While there were likely multiple versions of the raincoat used over the years, they were all intended to maintain the same worn and rumpled aesthetic. Some say different ones are available for different conditions, rain etc.
FAQ 9: How did the other actors react to Columbo’s attire?
Many actors playing the murderers likely found Columbo’s appearance disarming. His seemingly casual attire and demeanor lulled them into a false sense of security, making them more susceptible to his interrogations.
FAQ 10: Did the raincoat ever become a plot point in any episode?
Yes, as mentioned before! In “Murder by the Book”, it was used as a distinctive clue that would have been known to the audience.
FAQ 11: Is the raincoat considered a fashion icon?
While perhaps not in the traditional sense, the raincoat has undoubtedly become a recognizable and iconic piece of television history. It represents a rejection of conventional glamour and an embrace of authenticity.
FAQ 12: Where can I find a raincoat like Columbo’s?
Searching for a “rumpled trench coat” or “distressed raincoat” online or at vintage clothing stores may yield results. However, capturing the exact look and feel of Columbo’s raincoat requires finding one that truly looks well-worn and well-loved.
The Enduring Appeal of Columbo
Regardless of the specific attire, the essence of Columbo lies in his sharp intellect, his persistent nature, and his ability to outsmart even the most cunning criminals. “Prescription: Murder” laid the foundation for this enduring character, proving that brilliance can come in the most unassuming of packages, even without the trademark raincoat. The missing coat, in the first film, serves only to underscore that Columbo’s brilliance is intrinsic, not dependent on an article of clothing, however iconic it later became.