Ep 3. I Call Your Name

In the third season of the beloved sitcom Cheers, episode three titled "I Call Your Name" explores the intricacies of identity and what we choose to share with others. The episode opens with Sam Malone, the owner of the titular Boston bar, entertaining an attractive woman named Cindy who is in town for a business meeting. When Cindy goes to use the restroom, Sam catches the eye of an old flame, Sheila, who he tries to hide from Cindy's view.

Meanwhile, a regular customer at Cheers, Norm, has been laid off from his job and is struggling with his newfound free time. He starts to become increasingly possessive of his wife, Vera, who works long hours as a secretary. Norman's insecurity reaches a boiling point when Vera receives a call from her boss, who she has taken to calling by his first name, Roger. Norm insists on knowing more about Roger and becomes convinced that his wife is having an affair.

Back at the bar, Diane, the academic and intellectual who works as a waitress, is excited about a letter she has received from a prestigious university. She has been invited to join a literary society that she has long admired, but she is unsure if the invitation is genuine. In her excitement, she confides in Carla, the brassy and often crude waitress who is more skeptical about Diane's achievement.

As the episode progresses, each of the characters experiences a moment where their sense of identity is challenged. Sam is forced to confront his feelings for Sheila, who he has tried to forget, while also trying to impress Cindy. Norm's sense of self-worth, tied to his career, is suddenly threatened, leading him to question the loyalty of his wife. Diane, who often presents herself as aloof and self-sufficient, is forced to seek validation from her peers.

In typical Cheers fashion, the characters' arcs intersect and ultimately teach them a valuable lesson. They each learn that it's okay to take risks and be vulnerable, even if it means exposing a part of themselves that they are not entirely comfortable with.

The episode is filled with the signature wit and warmth that made Cheers such a beloved show in its time. The banter between the characters feels natural and the humor is understated yet satisfying. The pacing is well-done, with each character receiving enough screen time to develop their own stories without taking away from the overall narrative.

Ultimately, "I Call Your Name" is a delightful episode that explores some of the more nuanced aspects of human relationships. Its strong writing and memorable characters ensure that it remains a highlight of the series' third season.