Detective Conan [Season 1 Episode 1189]

Detective Conan Episode 1189: Double Alibi – A Classic Whodunit with a Twist

Let’s cut to the chase: Detective Conan’s 1189th episode, “Double Alibi,” is exactly what longtime fans love about the series—twisty, character-driven, and packed with those small, satisfying moments that make you go, “Oh, right, that’s why I’ve stuck around for 25+ years.” For anyone who’s ever binged the show late at night, trying to outsmart Conan before he uses his voice-changing bowtie, this episode delivers the goods with a side of chaos (thanks, Kogoro).

First, let’s recap the setup: A murder at a traditional Japanese inn brings Conan and the Detective Boys (plus a very reluctant Kogoro) into a case where two suspects each claim the other is the killer. The twist? As one fan put it, “they both planned to kill each other lol.” Yeah, you read that right. The culprit’s identity might’ve been obvious to some—let’s be real, the guy with the shifty eyes and a grudge against his mentor was a dead giveaway—but the how? That’s where the episode shines. The double alibi trick had me pausing to rewind, thinking, “Wait, did they really do that?” It’s the kind of layered mystery that rewards paying attention, even when Kogoro’s off making a fool of himself.

Speaking of Kogoro: This episode’s MVP isn’t Conan (shocking, I know). It’s Natsumi, the sharp-eyed little girl who steals the show with her quick thinking. When she handcuffs Kogoro to slow down the culprit, I laughed out loud—same as the fan who called it “the best part.” Let’s be honest, Kogoro’s escape route choice was a head-scratcher (“I am curious why Kogoro used that escape route but I guess that will remain a mystery”), but Natsumi’s instinct? Better than his by a mile. She’s the unsung hero here, proving that even the smallest characters can turn the tide.

The episode also touches on a relatable (if infuriating) theme: mentors stealing their apprentices’ work. As another viewer noted, “I truly wonder how common it is for a ‘master’ to take their apprentice’s work.” It’s a quiet, human detail that grounds the over-the-top murder plot, making the villain’s motives feel less cartoonish and more… real. And let’s not forget the Persona 5 shoutout—“Too bad this isn’t Persona 5 and they couldn’t have the guy have a change of heart instead.” Relatable. We’ve all wanted to use a Phantom Thief-style heist to fix someone’s ego, right?

Now, let’s talk about the haters. Some fans rolled their eyes at the episode’s predictability, but here’s the thing: Detective Conan isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel. It’s a comfort show, like a warm bowl of ramen after a long day. As one commenter put it, “if you hated this episode/chapter, just watch/read something else.” Fair enough. But for those of us who love the formula—Conan’s deductive genius, Kogoro’s accidental heroics, the Detective Boys’ chaotic energy—this episode hits all the right notes.

Visually, the episode stays true to TMS Entertainment’s classic style. The inn’s traditional setting, with sliding doors and paper lanterns, gives the murder a cozy-yet-creepy vibe, while the action sequences (yes, even Kogoro’s bumbling escape) are smooth and dynamic. The image of Natsumi brandishing those handcuffs? Iconic. It’s the kind of scene that’ll get meme’d for weeks, and honestly? Deserved.

At its core, “Double Alibi” is a love letter to Detective Conan’s legacy. It doesn’t rely on flashy gadgets or over-the-top villains—just good old-fashioned sleuthing, with a side of humor and heart. Whether you’re a diehard fan who’s read the manga or a casual viewer tuning in for the mystery, this episode works. It’s not the most groundbreaking Conan episode ever, but it’s solid, fun, and reminds you why Shinichi Kudo’s tiny alter ego has kept us hooked for decades.

So, if you’re in the mood for a mystery that’ll make you think, laugh, and maybe even yell at your screen (“Kogoro, stop being an idiot!”), give Episode 1189 a watch. Just don’t forget to keep an eye on the small details—you never know when a little girl with handcuffs might save the day.

Final Verdict: 7/10. A classic Conan episode that does what it does best—entertains. And let’s be real, any episode where Natsumi outsmarts Kogoro is a win in my book.

P.S. If you loved the double-cross twist, go back and rewatch Episode 320—you’ll see some fun parallels. Trust me.