Episode Review: Good Son - Season 1, Episode 1

A great episode. The first episode and easily one of the best. Brilliantly structured - simple, clever, and introduces the characters effectively. Each character is setup in their respective first scenes and although every character grows throughout the series, essentially, the basic personalities are established right from the start.

The smooth balance between comedy and drama is what makes this episode so great. The show isn't afraid to vacillate between sarcastic laughter and moments that seriously explore the deeper human experience. Smart writing, well-crafted dialogue and amazing acting all contribute to the development of these genuine and likable characters that we all come to love.

Best Scenes/Moments
All of them. The episode unfolds so naturally and efficiently. In the first scene, Frasier Crane discusses the current situation of his life, using it as a metaphor to help a caller (showing his new job and new life all at once) and we also meet the feisty, fiery, Roz Doyle. From the get go, the show touches on laughs and drama as Frasier "bears his soul to all of Seattle", but unfortunately, while his show is off-air.

Next, we meet "the brother" Niles Crane. Frasier and Niles partake in some brotherly banter, setting up the relationship between the two brothers and showing their aristocratic personalities. Their conversation takes a turn towards more sobering issues as Niles convinces Frasier to take in their father, a police officer forced into early retirement and life with a walking cane after being shot in the hip.

Martin Crane storms into the show, displaying his gruff, blue-collar, and sarcastic nature quickly. Also, the differences and dynamics of the father/son relationship are set into motion. When we meet the eccentric Daphne Moon, as she interviews for the physical therapist position, the complexity of Frasier and Martin's relationship is developed even more as the disagreement over Daphne serves as a catalyst for their conflicts.

In the last scene, Martin calls into Frasier's radio show and they express their feelings and come to a better understanding for each other's situation. A touching moment and a solid scene.

In my opinion, "Good Son" is one of the greatest sitcom episodes ever written, from little moments like the cuts to Martin's smiling reaction to Daphne's odd humor to bigger moments like Frasier and Martin arguing over their new situation. Simply, a brilliantly crafted work of art.

Overall Grade: A+

Favorite Lines

• "When was the last time you had an unexpressed thought?" - Frasier. "I'm having one now..." - Niles.
• "Maris is like the sun, except without the warmth." - Frasier
  
• "Why don't I take Dad's things into his new bachelor quarters, so you two scoundrels can plan some hi-jinks!" - Niles
• "But he's weird. He gives me the creeps. All he does is stare at me!" - Frasier, in regards to Eddie.
  
• "I must confess....I'm a bit psyyychic." - Daphne.
• "You know how it is with fathers and sons, they have trouble saying that stuff." - Martin