Abstract: A motion detection circuit within MUSE decoder for reproducing a high definition television picture signal from a MUSE signal obtains one-interframe differential signal and preferably one-interfield differential signal from an interframe interpolation signal. The differential signals are passed through a vertical filter to limit the vertical frequency and through a horizontal filter or filters to obtain a high and a low frequency component signal. The judgment circuit judges the reliability of the high and low component signals on the basis of the levels of peak values thereof, and the selector selects an appropriate signal in accordance with the judgment. Horizontal and vertical width extenders and absolute value output circuits may be provided to improve the performance.