A Televisual Feast

The third episode–sans Spearchucker I’ve noticed (but still with Ugly John, in an instrumental role no less, and I’m guessing the first appearance of William Christopher as Father Mulcahy)–is either back on track or on a new track. The writing’s a lot better, courtesy Robert Klane (who went on to write, most significantly, Weekend at Bernie’s), with both Hawkeye and Trapper feeling like real people. There’s a chemistry between them in the script in this episode, not just relying on the acting.

The premise is also a lot better–Trapper has to box to get back the nurse they both like–and there’s good moments for the entire cast. There’s also the chance to get back at Frank and Hot Lips (though, again, the groundwork for a more sensitive Hot Lips is being laid) and the episode’s actually funny as opposed to last time.

The episode moves quickly, no real subplots, just little scenes for the supporting cast. It feels different, since all shows have subplots these days… but it works.

3