Have always been quite fond of 'Murder She Wrote'. It is a fun and relaxing watch that makes you think as you try to unwind in the evening. If one wants more complex, twisty mysteries with lots of tension and suspense 'Murder She Wrote' may not be for you, but if you want something light-hearted and entertaining but still provide good mysteries 'Murder She Wrote' fits the bill just fine.
Season 12, along with Seasons 9 and 11, is one of the weaker and more variable ones of 'Murder She Wrote'. It is though a season that got off to a good start, and "The Secret of Gila Junction" continues this while not being one of the best or worst of either the season or 'Murder She Wrote' in general. It is not a perfect or great episode. The denouement is a bit anaemic, it didn't surprise me and was not that well acted.
The acting from the younger suspects was not so convincing either, a common theme it seems for the later seasons generally and in particular Season 12.
On the other hand, the mystery is entertaining and interesting with enough twists and turns to keep one guessing. All the crimes are engagingly written and resolved neatly but not too patly.
Angela Lansbury can be depended upon to give a good performance and she gives that and more consistently in one of her best remembered roles for good reasons. Dorothy Lyman, Bo Swenson and Guy Boyd give good support.
Production values are slick and stylish with great use of the setting. The music has energy and has presence but also not making the mistake of over-scoring, while it is hard to forget or resist the theme tune. The writing is amiable and thought-provoking.
In conclusion, good though the denouement and the questionable acting from the younger cast bring things down somewhat. 7/10 Bethany Cox