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This unique M*A*S*H episode is basically a Hawkeye one-man show
It’s the only episode that features just one main cast member.
Season four, episode 18 of M*A*S*H is unlike any other episode of the series. We don't see any main characters aside from Hawkeye and we never see the 4077th. The entire episode takes place in a small Korean farm house miles away from anything familiar. Who would be bold enough to pull off such a departure from the norm? One of the brilliant minds responsible for bringing the show into existence, Larry Gelbart, who directed and co-wrote the aptly titled “Hawkeye.”
The story starts with Alan Alda's Captain Benjamin Franklin "Hawkeye" Pierce driving back to camp from an aid station. He swerves to avoid children playing in the road and crashes his Jeep. The children lead him to their parents’ house where he tries to communicate that he can't rest or go to sleep for fear that he suffered a concussion.
In order to keep himself awake, Hawkeye sings, remembers childhood in Maine and praises the magnificence of the human thumb. The entire episode is almost an extended monologue, a rambling one man show. Less capable actors might find the feat intimidating but Alda pulls it off with this trademark mix of sarcasm and sincerity.
M*A*S*H never shied away from serious topics or off-beat storylines and "Hawkeye" is one of the clearest examples of how the show eschewed convention. Not many other sitcoms would set aside its talented cast in favor of one character stranded by himself in the company of people unable to speak the same language.
The episode received two Emmy nominations for writing and cinematography. A writing nod is obvious but recognizing camerawork for something that takes place almost entirely in one house might seem odd. But it’s because of the limited location, and how the camera moves around in long, uninterrupted takes, that make it special. The episode didn’t ultimately win in either category but the nominations prove the thought that went into every aspect of the production, things that other shows might not care as much about.
What do you think of this unique episode? Let us know in the comments!
44 Comments
Don't know which was written or recorded first but the Maude episode ("The Analyst") was broadcast two months before the M*A*S*H episode. (Both series premiered in 1972 and were broadcast by CBS).
Ahhh, no. A little of Alan Alda goes a long way. And this was way too intense. Sorry but he's an ensemble actor (which is not to diminish his talent). In fact it's actually more difficult because it's based more on dialogue (than setting). And there's a talent for exchanging with actors on a regular basis (because of the familiarity) in order to keep it fresh! Good timing and reactions. Many take improv to do it right!
BJ: that’s great Frank, they’re looking for us in Jerusalem. Frank just kills me. Happy Friday MeTV gang.
And also, if I do say so myself, it's a real pity that this episode didn't win those Emmys that it was nominated for, because Lord knows it deserved to win them, IMHO.