Castle (TV Series) Once Upon a Crime (2012) User Reviews

A Return To The Basics

[MichaelSeese · 9/10 · 23 April 2012]

This episode, to me, was very "satisfying" because it represented a return to the "basics." Shows like the two-parter "Pandora" and "Linchpin," as well as a previous "save New York from a nuclear device" episode just seem too...I don't know...BIG. Let's let Castle and Beckett solve tricky, quirky murders in New York City, and leave preventing World War III to James Bond.

So down from my soapbox...

There were two things about the "Who Done It" that I found particularly clever:

(Spoilers in the next two paragraphs)

1. This is the first time (which I can recall) that someone went from victim to suspect to guilty party. I thought the attempt at a switcheroo -- arresting the extortionist brother-in-law -- was a noble effort, but I didn't fall for it; I looked at the clock, read 10:45, and said, "Too early."

2. It was a visual clue which led to solving the case. Though I have no doubt that when we first saw "Sleeping Beauty" the bow was, in fact, vertical, I didn't catch it. But Castle did. Nice touch.

Otherwise, I registered a few noteworthy lines:

• "I'm going to erase that image from my mind with a bottle of scotch."

• "You're cute when you get angry. Not when you get angry at me."

Esposito in a suit? What the ... ?

And (yes) as always there were plenty of looks. But the best:

Castle: "There is a very avant garde subculture of fairy tale role playing."

Beckett: "And you know this how...?" (Good look.)

Castle, dreamily: "Bo Peep." (GREAT look.)

A Captivating Fairytale Twist

[xenn032 · 9/10 · 29 June 2023]

Once Upon a Crime excels in its ability to seamlessly merge the fictional world of fairy tales with a gritty murder investigation. The visual aesthetics are breathtaking, with the production team paying meticulous attention to detail in recreating the enchanting atmosphere of a storybook realm. From the lavish costumes to the picturesque set designs, every element of the episode transports viewers into a world that is simultaneously magical and haunting.

It stands out as a truly remarkable episode of Castle. With its mesmerizing blend of mystery, romance, and whimsy, it delivers an unforgettable viewing experience. The outstanding performances, intricate storytelling, and captivating visuals combine to create a fairy tale-like adventure that will leave fans both enchanted and enthralled. Once Upon a Crime is a testament to the enduring brilliance of Castle and a must-watch for fans and newcomers alike.

As for that plot twist? It'll leave you speechless.

A princess in a fairy tale

[brueggemanntami · 8/10 · 28 December 2021]

With all of the drama going on in the royal family nowadays, it was interesting to see Meghan Markle as a young actress before any of it began. Ironic that she played a princess long before marrying Prince Harry and becoming one, even if she does not carry that title. Harry has always been my favorite. I hope things work out well for them when all is said and done.

She's going to need a good lawyer

[cpotato1010 · 9/10 · 11 July 2022]

This was released on ABC in between the first and second seasons of Suits on the USA network.

I had watched the first season of Suits, but did not connect that Megan Markle playing Charlotte was the same person who had played Rachel Zane on Suits.

Overall, the part of Charlotte is not very big, but the final scenes in the hospital do showcase Megan Markle. Most of the changes are heard in her voice as she is being questioned, and it is very evident if you listen with headphones. Going from presumed victim, to possible suspect, to arrestee was well done on Megan's part.

For the rest of the show, it was a welcome relief to get back into the normal odd crime cases that Castle did so well.

That said, some of the other "spy" type episodes were also well done. I am thinking in particular of the two-parter in Season 5 that ends up in another country.