The Private Eyes

This 1980 slapstick comedy stars TV icons Tim Conway and Don Knotts as Dr. Tart and Inspector Winship, bumbling detectives called upon to investigate a murder in a foreboding and perhaps haunted mansion, presumably in England. Although this would seem to be a good vehicle for the leads' nitwit and nervous personas, the pair are let down by a flat script (co-written by Conway and John Myhers) and uninspired direction by Lang Elliott. The liveliest scenes involve the duo's interactions with the crazed house staff, including the butler (Bernard Fox), who's driven to spasms by the word “murder,” and the nanny (Grace Zabriskie). But most of the gags here are pretty much dead on arrival. Although The Private Eyes certainly looks handsome on Blu-ray, the improved image doesn't make it any funnier. Extras include audio commentary by Conway and Elliott, and a photo gallery. Not recommended. (D. Liebenson)