Ep 1. Pilot (1)
- TV-G
- September 12, 2002
- 25 min
-
8.5 (81)
The first season of Family Affair kicks off with its pilot episode titled "Pilot (1)." The series, which originally aired in 1966, follows the life of bachelor Bill Davis, a successful engineer living in New York City. Bill's life is turned upside down when his brother and sister-in-law die in a tragic accident, leaving him to become the guardian of their three children: teenager Cissy and young twins Jody and Buffy.
The episode opens with Bill enjoying his bachelor lifestyle, living in a luxurious apartment with a butler named Mr. French. However, his carefree world comes crashing down when his lawyer informs him of the death of his brother and sister-in-law, and the fact that he is now responsible for their three kids. At first, Bill is hesitant to take on the responsibility and insists on finding a solution that doesn't disrupt his lifestyle. But eventually, he realizes that he is the only family his nieces and nephew have left and he must step up to the plate.
Bill picks up the three kids from their small town and brings them back to his apartment in the heart of New York City. Jody and Buffy are immediately smitten with their new surroundings, while Cissy is more hesitant and reserved. She is a typical teenager, unsure of how to fit into her new life and dealing with the recent loss of her parents.
As Bill tries to figure out how to care for the kids, Mr. French steps in to help. He is a loyal butler who has worked for the Davis family for years and is determined to make sure that the children are well taken care of. He helps to organize the kids' schedules, including school and extracurricular activities.
The bulk of the episode revolves around the different ways that the kids adapt to their new life in the big city. Bickering and arguing are common between Jody and Buffy, but they also show an unwavering loyalty to one another. Cissy struggles to fit in with her new peers and is distant from Bill, but eventually they connect over their shared love of music. Meanwhile, Bill is learning how to be a parent and is grappling with his new responsibility.
The pilot episode is a heartwarming look at a family dealing with a major change in their lives. The characters are likable and relatable, and the show does a great job of balancing humor and drama. There are plenty of funny moments, often involving Mr. French and his dry sense of humor, but there are also touching scenes that tug on the heartstrings. The show is an ode to family, showing that even in difficult times, love and support can get you through anything.
Overall, the pilot episode of Family Affair sets the tone for the rest of the series. It's a charming, heartwarming show with likable characters and relatable storylines. The episode does a great job of introducing the different personalities of the Davis family and setting the stage for how they will navigate their new life together. It's a nostalgic look back at a simpler time, where family values and togetherness were at the forefront.