by Ted Davis
Original Air Date: October 27, 1994
Directed by: Leo Penn
Cat Out of the Bag Alert! This review contains spoilers for this episode!
Synopsis: In this unusual episode from the 9th and last season, multi-multi-millionaire philanthropist Malcolm Engle (Terry O’Quinn) cold-bloodedly murders a close friend of deceptively homespun Ben Matlock (Andy Griffith), purely as a taunt and a challenge to the prominent Atlanta-based lawyer — and uses a cat to help establish his alibi.
Cat Burglar (Scene Stealer): At their first meeting in the millionaire’s home, Engle greets Matlock while carrying Mo, his long-haired tabby cat. The cat is visible throughout the scene.
In Engle’s personal office, he takes Mo out of a satchel to rig a complicated alibi using the motion detector security system in combination with a scheduled phone meeting.
The cat is seen in closer shots walking on the desk and floor.
After the murder is committed, Engle returns to the office to greet Mo, who is waiting patiently on the desk.
Outside, on a beautiful sunlit day, Engle calls Matlock to twist the knife, figuratively speaking, into the stunned lawyer, and is accompanied by his cat drowsing in a lawn chair.
During the one-sided conversation, Engle picks up Mo and, sitting down, places the cat in his lap.
Final Mewsings: “Your honor, the kitty was just being loyal to his owner.” “Case dismissed!”
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