Mister Ed (1961–1966)
9/10
A true one of a kind.
12 February 2016
This show always brings me a smile to my face. Whenever I watch an episode, I enjoy it not only for the laughs, but also because it's so different. Were there really any shows like this at the time? The plots can go from simple to absolutely outrageous (Mister Ed digging a long tunnel all by himself, nearly going to space, writing his own memoirs) and the chemistry between Mister Ed and Wilbur avoids the clichés of animal-owner relationships we otherwise see. You see, Wilbur never hates Ed for anything he does. And Ed never annoys Wilbur just for the sake of it. Mostly, it's his own silly personal problems which just happen to put Wilbur in trouble as well. And despite how tough Ed can make Wilbur's life, there are several examples (both direct and subtle ones) of how much he loves him. Sometimes he denies it, but whenever his friendship with Wilbur is threatened, he can go crazy and desperately wants to make sure it doesn't have to be that way. And as much as ol' Wil loves his wife, he equally (if not more so) cares about his horse. To quote Ed:

"You love me more than you love your wife, don't you, buddy boy?"

Speaking of quotes, this show is shockfull of great ones. The humor is sometimes subtle, and it happens that I have to think before I get a joke, but then burst out in laughter as soon as I do. Some of the funniest lines I've heard in a sitcom are in this show.

There's a little bit of everything for everyone. And it occasionally gets pretty mature. There are episodes dealing with gender roles, teenage recklessness, making fun of Clint Eastwood, satirizing the peace corps... not to mention there's a lot of clever innuendo. Yep, you heard that right! Most of it comes from Mister Ed and is sometimes so obvious I wonder how they even got away with it, haha. But for those just seeking out that warm, fuzzy feeling, there's plenty of that too. Ed and Wilbur's relationship is truly touching and the chemistry between Allan Lane (who's voicing the horse) and Alan Young is simply amazing. Hell, even the horse itself is a great actor! And aside of those two, we also have Roger and Kay Addison. The hilariously broken couple who somehow still are perfect for each other.

The only flaws I have is that Carol is not a very funny character and can get on my nerves. And I personally think the Kirkwoods were too similar to the Addisons. Anyway, if you are looking for that 60's charm and want something special, Mister Ed is a terrific pick.

I'm hoping it with time gets more recognition! :)
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