Murder 101: College Can be Murder

Murder 101: College Can be Murder is a 1992 American direct-to-video mystery film directed by David Lowell Rich, based on a novel by Jonathon Stroud. The movie centers around Criminology Professor Dr. Jonathan Maxwell, played by Dick Van Dyke, who does not believe that Professor Archer Coe, the chairman of the English Department, died of a heart attack as initially reported. Dr. Maxwell, being a keen and observant professor, decides to delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding Professor Coe's death. His interest in uncovering the truth stems not only from his concern for justice but also from his own personal connection with Professor Coe, whom he regarded as a friend. In order to ensure that the truth is revealed, Dr. Maxwell hires his friend Mike Parker, a private investigator, to look into the matter. As Mike Parker, played by Ralph Forsgate, starts digging into Professor Coe's past, he uncovers numerous motives for murder that had been previously overlooked. One of the first suspects he encounters is the university's Dean, who had a contentious relationship with Professor Coe. Their disagreements were rooted in the dean's disapproval of Professor Coe's unconventional teaching methods, which often challenged the status quo and made the students think critically. The investigation leads Mike Parker to several individuals who had possible motives for killing Professor Coe, including an angry English student who had clashed with Professor Coe over his grading, a former colleague who felt betrayed by Professor Coe, and a former lover who was still hurt and bitter about their failed affair. As Mike Parker digs deeper, the motives and secrets surrounding Professor Coe's death become more complex and convoluted. One of the most significant discoveries made during the investigation is that Professor Coe was not as well-liked as initially thought. Many students and faculty members had grown tired of his behavior, which often bordered on being abrasive and insensitive. Moreover, Professor Coe had a secret that could have ruined his reputation and career: he was secretly dating one of his students in violation of university policies. As Mike Parker delves deeper into the case, he encounters more evidence that suggests that the death was not due to a pre-existing heart condition but was instead a result of foul play. He discovers that Professor Coe had been receiving threatening letters before his death, hinting at possible murder on campus. In a thrilling twist, Mike Parker manages to expose the killer's identity, revealing that it was none other than Professor Coe's former lover, who had felt betrayed and humiliated by his failure to end their affair amicably. The reveal not only brings closure to the case but also provides valuable insight into the complexities of human relationships. The case serves as a reminder that nothing is ever as straightforward as it appears, and that there may be more than meets the eye in any situation. Through his dogged determination, Mike Parker is able to unravel the tangled web of motives and secrets surrounding Professor Coe's death, showcasing his skills as a detective and cementing his partnership with Dr. Maxwell. In conclusion, Murder 101: College Can be Murder is a gripping whodunit that explores the mysteries and complexities of human relationships. With Dick Van Dyke's signature wit and charm, the movie is a thrilling ride that keeps viewers engaged until the very end. While not without its flaws, the movie provides a satisfying solution to the mystery, offering a memorable conclusion to the case that will leave viewers pondering the complexities of the human condition long after the credits roll.