Rebuilding Rob

About 6 weeks also, I wrote a review of MASH, season 1. Since then, I have been plugging my way through the show, intent on watching the entire series from beginning to end. Yesterday, I occurred to me that I have crossed it’s halfway point; having watched 128 of the shows 251 episodes.

At this point, it goes without saying that MASH is still one of the most beloved show in television history. Of course, it was based on the 1970 movie of the same title; which, itself, was based on a 1968 novel. The show was set during the Korean War, which “only” lasted 3 years. However the series ran for 11 seasons – a testament to its popularity. MASH walked several different proverbial tightropes – lampooning war and military life while also depicting the enormity of both. Keep in mind, the US involvement in Vietnam war was winding down when MASH premiered in 1972. It was a part of the era of “tv relevancy” – when network television shows began directly addressing issues of the day. MASH was no exception. While it it ridiculed war, MASH tackled topics like death, politics, racism, sexism and homophobia head-on. Accordingly, as the series marches on, the laugh track gradually disappears and stories become more drama based. MASH was dramedy before the word was even used in popular culture.

What has impressed me most about the show (especially so since I’m watching it for the first time in 2024) is how remarkably well it holds up 50 years later. Sure, some of the humor doesn’t pack the same punch as it may have in previous decades; but most of it is still funny. As impressive as the durability of the humor has been, it’s the pacing of the show that boggles my mind. Let me explain…

As a fan of the Star Trek franchise, I’ve learned how to watch older television show within their context. The original Star Trek premiered in 1966 and despite its sometimes brilliant storytelling, it just FEELS like old TV. The older hair styles and the then-future aesthetic can be accepted; but the overbearing score, and the hammy acting are impossible to ignore. MASH premiered just 4 years after Star Trek ended in 1968 and I don’t feel any of that. MASH could be dropped into the modern television landscape, and for the most part, it could still fly. Sure maybe the language isn’t as salty and the adult content isn’t as salacious as what 21st century audiences have come to expect, but MASH still works.

Having said all that, I have compiled a list of my top 5 MASH episodes so far. There is a two-parter that I counted as one episode as it is one full story. I also included an honorable mention. There are A LOT of great bits and one liners sprinkled throughout the series that I love, but these are the full episodes that really made me stop and think.

But before I get to the list, I want to include a clip of one of my favorite pieces of dialogue from the series thus far. It comes from season 5, episode 21 “The General’s Practitioner”:

Now, for my top 5 episodes, in no particular order:

War of nerves – season 6, episode 5. This is another one of the more serious episodes. When having his own meltdown, psychiatrist Dr Sidney Freedman visits the 4077 to find the the unit completely on edge

Bug Out pts 1 and 2. Season 5 episodes 1-2. The 4077 is ordered to “bug out” and move the camp ahead of a possible invasion by the Chinese. While the rest of the camp leaves, Hawkeye, Houlihan and Radar stay behind to tend to a recovering patient. This episode shows a new-found level of respect between Hawkeye and Houlihan going forward.

Deluge – season 4, episode 24. As the title implies the 4077 is bombarded with incoming casualties and deals with limited supplies.

The interview – season 4, episode 25 this episode is shot entirely in black and white sans the laugh track. it is presented as a documentary that a news crew is filming about the 4077. Even though I never watched the show as a kid, I remember this episode. The black and white and the lack of a laugh track always stuck with me.

Abyssinia Henry season 3, episode 24- Col Henry Blake’s departure from the war, and the series. While this was a pivotal episode in the series, I don’t rank it quite as highly as others have. Maybe because I knew how it ended in advance.

Honorable Mention: Pilot season 1, episode 1. One of the better series premieres I’ve seen. This episode introduces the cast, sets the tone for the show and leaves the viewer wanting more.

MASH is currently streaming in Hulu.

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The article “Rob’s top 5 MASH episodes…so far” first appeared on Rebuilding Rob.