In this satisfyingly large box set, 26 episodes features cases that run far and wide over a huge range of circumstances, from intensely dedicated vampire fiction writers, protection duty against a self-inflicted (read: suicidal) murder-for-hire contract, to a houseful of magicians or a not-so-sincere date for Famous Detective Richard Moore. (I think the character would prefer the entire title, capitalization included.) The formula for this series is pretty straightforward (Detective Moore gets called in on a case, Jimmy tags along and solves it, and uses his techo-gagdets to announce the verdict and give the credit to Richard.), but each circumstance is refreshingly different. Also, I find my own suspicions of the long-term effects of Jimmy’s knockout drug on Richard’s mental health amusing enough to laugh every time Jimmy gives him another dose.
In this set, however, we are given a larger taste of the truth about Jimmy’s state than before, with four entire episodes either focusing on the growing suspicions of Rachel about “Conan’s” possible identity, or a case where “Conan” helps his mother (who has been in on Jimmy’s alter-ego secret the entire time) solve a mystery for a friend from her grade-school days. The animation is, as always, classic and the mysteries as detailed as they are varied. I still prefer the English dub on this series, as I enjoy the contrast between Conan’s speaking voice, and Jimmy’s more mature tones relaying the inner thoughts. The translation (judging only by the English subtitles versus the English script) is not quite as detailed as the original script, but is easily comprehensible and doesn’t detract from the plotlines.
For any fan of mystery, murder, or the simple humor found when an apparent child is allowed near-constant access to murder scenes, victims and evidence, this box set is a must have and will stand proudly alongside its predecessors.