Columbo delves into the world of magic, ESP and sleight of hand as he investigates the death of a magician, and there appears to be a tie to a prodigal psychic.
Columbo is called to investigate the death of Max Dyson, a well-known magician and mentalist, beheaded by his own invention — a trick guillotine. Columbo takes notice of the fact that the guillotine collar was removed and standing neatly some distance away from the rest of the machined. Bert, a neighbour who loved and admired Max, tells Columbo that Max made a living building magic effects equipment and exposing charlatan magicians.
Now, Columbo knows, he has to do his homework, watching magicians and trying to find the angle of the guillotine trick.