Ep 3. The Fifth Solomon
- TV-PG
- November 2, 1999
- 21 min
-
7.6 (298)
The Fifth Solomon brings us to a new school year and to Dick's dismay, the arrival of his nemesis, Dr. Liam Neesam, as the new physics professor. This episode opens with the Solomons discussing their plans for the new academic year. Sally is going to be a guidance counselor, Harry is going to be a gym teacher, and Tommy is going to be a drama teacher. Dick has high hopes of getting a promotion at the university, but his happiness is quickly replaced by anger when he discovers that Neesam is the new physics professor.
Neesam is a physicist from a rival university who has been competing with Dick for years. Dick is convinced that Neesam stole many of his ideas and research for his own professional gain. Neesam, a self-described "rock star" physicist, makes it his mission to remind Dick at every opportunity how much better he is. The Solomons try to convince Dick to let go of his anger towards Neesam, but it becomes clear that nothing they say can change his mind.
As the episode progresses, Dick discovers that Neesam is also interested in a particular research project that Dick has been working on. The project involves a new type of rocket fuel that could change the world of space travel. Dick is convinced that Neesam is trying to steal his idea again, so he decides to complete the project in record time to beat Neesam to the punch.
Throughout the episode, we see Dick become more and more consumed by his rivalry with Neesam. He works tirelessly, neglecting his friends and family in the process, to complete the rocket fuel project before Neesam does. His obsession with beating Neesam eventually leads to an explosive confrontation between the two physicists that threatens to ruin everything they've worked for.
In addition to the main storyline between Dick and Neesam, this episode also features the arrival of a new Solomon family member - a fifth alien named Leon. Leon is an eccentric alien who has been living in the shadows of earth for years, waiting for the right moment to reveal himself to his fellow aliens. His introduction into the group brings a new dynamic to the show, and his quirky personality is a welcome distraction from the ongoing feud between Dick and Neesam.
Overall, The Fifth Solomon is a great episode that showcases the strengths of 3rd Rock from the Sun. The rivalry between Dick and Neesam is the perfect mix of humor and drama, and the addition of Leon to the group is a breath of fresh air. This episode is a great example of what makes 3rd Rock from the Sun such a fun and entertaining show to watch.