Review of Murder in My House

This is no mystery, for the viewer knows almost from the beginning who the killer is, but it is a fairly decent made-for-TV suspense thriller. The story premise is an intriguing one. A divorcée, Lauren Kessler (Barbara Niven), and her retired prosecutor father, Stran Douglas (Daniel J. Travanti), have moved into a new home unaware that a murder was committed in the guest house not long before. When Lauren learns of the dastardly deed she has her father check out the Pennsylvania law on disclosure. He learns that the Realtor had done nothing contrary to state law but becomes involved in reopening the case, since apparently the local authorities had botched the investigation sending the victim's wife to prison on circumstantial evidence. The couple's only child, Genesis, was placed in the custody of the wife's sister, Clair (Ellen Dubin), who works with Lauren and Stran to clear her sister and free her from prison. Stran encourages his daughter to date a friendly neighbor, Brian Ellis (Gary Hudson). Then the fun begins. The key to the mystery for the amateur sleuths is to uncover the victim's lover.

The beautiful Ottawa scenery (a stand-in for Pennsylvania) adds much to the film. The acting is first rate with a standout performance by Lisa Zane, playing the ghost of Roxanne, Brian's deceased wife. Gary Hudson makes a quirky Brian Ellis reminding the viewer of Eric Roberts, an old pro at playing such roles. The suspense never lets up, even with the commercial breaks.

Somewhat predictable and filled with plot holes, "Murder in My House" is worthwhile for fans of the genre. Not bad for a made-for-TV flick.