Ep 1. The Day The Balloon Went Up

In "The Day The Balloon Went Up," the first episode of Dad's Army season 4, the Home Guard of Walmington-on-Sea is tasked with guarding a barrage balloon, which the Nazi's are known to be targeting. However, when the balloon breaks loose from its moorings during an air raid, the platoon must chase it down before it causes destruction to the town.

As always, Captain Mainwaring is in charge and is adamant that the balloon cannot be allowed to cause harm. Meanwhile, Sergeant Wilson is more concerned with the safety of his men, especially after they are ordered to climb the mail tower to try and reach the balloon. In typical Dad's Army fashion, the platoon gets into all sorts of scrapes as they try to retrieve the balloon, and even the Vicar gets pulled into the action.

The episode is full of classic Dad's Army humor, with the bumbling and sometimes comical efforts of the Home Guard causing chaos as they try to save the town from the balloon. The tension between Captain Mainwaring and Sergeant Wilson is also highlighted, with the two men often at odds over how to handle the situation.

Despite the humor, the episode also touches on the very real fear of war and the danger that came with it. The scene where the barrage balloon breaks free and drifts over the town is genuinely tense, with the threat of destruction looming as the platoon scrambles to contain it.

Overall, "The Day The Balloon Went Up" is a strong start to the fourth season of Dad's Army. It showcases the strengths of the show, including its talented cast and sharp writing. The episode manages to balance humor with genuine peril, creating an entertaining and engaging story that is sure to keep viewers on the edge of their seat.