Howcatchem: 7 Spine-tingling Mystery Shows That Reveal the Killer from the Start

In the captivating realm of mystery shows, a unique subgenre emerges: the "howcatchem," where the audience is privy to the identity of the killer from the outset. This thrilling format shifts the focus from "whodunit" to "how will they catch them," leaving viewers on the edge of their seats as the cat-and-mouse chase unfolds.

Columbo: The Legendary Pioneer

The undisputed king of the "howcatchem" is Columbo. With its iconic formula, each episode introduced a high-profile guest star as the seemingly flawless murderer. Enter Detective Columbo, played brilliantly by Peter Falk, whose unassuming demeanor and relentless pursuit gradually dismantled the killer's alibi. The series showcased Columbo's brilliant mind and knack for exposing the cracks in the most elaborate plans.

Elsbeth and Other Gems

Elsbeth, a recent addition to the genre, follows the enigmatic consulting detective Elsbeth Tascioni as she unravels murder cases for the NYPD. With her quirky perspective and ability to see through deception, Elsbeth brings a fresh twist to the "howcatchem" formula.

Other notable shows that have embraced this captivating format include:

• Poker Face: Natasha Lyonne stars as Charlie Cale, a card shark with a knack for detecting lies, who stumbles upon murder plots and uncovers the hidden truths.
• Motive: This Canadian series delves into the motivations behind murders, revealing the unexpected complexities and secrets that drive people to commit heinous crimes.
• Diagnosis Murder: Dick Van Dyke plays a surgeon who teams up with his detective son to solve crimes, occasionally employing the "howcatchem" format to expose the truth.
• Monk: Tony Shalhoub's eccentric detective often knows the killer early on, but the thrill lies in watching how his obsessive-compulsive quirks lead him to unravel the intricate details of their crimes.

The Enduring Appeal

The "howcatchem" genre captivates audiences by subverting the traditional mystery formula. Instead of wondering who did it, the suspense lies in witnessing the detectives' relentless pursuit and the cunning strategies they devise to trap the guilty parties. The format offers a fresh perspective on crime-solving, highlighting the psychological battles and intellectual challenges involved in bringing criminals to justice.