Yesterday I talked about M*A*S*H, Season 4 (1975-6) and "Welcome to Korea" and "The Interview." Well, today I'm going to discuss a few more of my fave episodes from this collection.
Top-5 Fave Episodes & Corresponding Commentary (In Chronological Order, According to Original Airdate):
1.) "Change of Command (9/19/75)": In this episode, Col. Sherman T. Potter officially replaces Frank Burns as commanding officer of the 4077. Hawkeye and B.J. are initially leary of having a regular Army "lifer" as c.o., but Potter eventually eases their fears by telling them how he won his Purple Heart. Classic TV!
2.) "The Late Captain Pierce (10/3/75)": Hawkeye is presumed dead following a serious mix-up. As a result of poor communication, no one can notify the Pierce family back in Crabapple Cove, Maine, that he is actually alive. This episode has a lot of depth and illustrates the importance of clear communication.
3.) "Dear Peggy (11/11/75)": This is the first episode that features new cast member Mike Farrell as Capt. B.J. Hunnicutt. Here, B.J. writes to his wife, Peg, in order to combat loneliness. In his letter home to Mill Valley, California, B.J. regales Peg with tales of Corporal Max Klinger's (Jamie Farr) attempts to get a "Section 8" by dressing as a woman and Frank Burns' incompetence in the O.R. Very funny!
4.) "Hawkeye (1/13/76)": After sustaining a concussion in a Jeep accident, Hawkeye stays in a Korean home and keeps from slipping into unconsciousness via his signature non-stop rants. Alan Alda's talents really shine in this episode.
5.) "The Novocaine Mutiny (1/27/76)": A great episode in which Major Burns orders a preliminary hearing to have Hawkeye court-martialed for insubordination. Of course, the rest of the 4077 sides with Hawkeye, and the hypocrisy and inherent ignorance of Burns' extremely right-wing views is exposed. Again, classic TV, not to mention amazing dialogue, here.
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