Ep 8. Poker

In season 3 episode 8 of Malcolm in the Middle, the brothers are introduced to the game of poker. It all starts when Hal is invited over to Abe's house for a poker game. Hal is initially hesitant to play, but when he realizes how much money is at stake, he jumps at the opportunity. He recruits Malcolm's help to learn the game and practice before the big game.

Meanwhile, Lois is suspicious of Hal's newfound passion for poker and worries that he's becoming addicted. She tries to convince him to stay home and spend time with the family instead, but Hal is determined to play. Lois decides to enlist Malcolm's help to spy on Hal and make sure he's not sneaking off to play poker when he should be at home.

At the poker game, Hal is having a great time despite losing a lot of money. He's finally winning a hand when he gets a call from Lois asking him where he is. Hal panics and makes a hasty retreat, leaving his money behind. The boys discover the money and quickly realize that they can use it to their advantage. They decide to start their own poker game and invite all their friends over to play.

As the night goes on, the stakes get higher and higher, and the boys start to get carried away. They begin to neglect their chores and responsibilities and focus solely on winning the game. Reese borrows money from Dewey to keep playing, but when he loses, he's unable to pay him back. Dewey starts to get worried and decides to take matters into his own hands.

Meanwhile, Malcolm is having second thoughts about taking advantage of Hal's gambling problem and decides to come clean. He tells Hal everything, and Hal is furious. He realizes that he's been neglecting his family and destroying their trust, and decides to give up poker for good.

In the end, Dewey gets his revenge on Reese by stealing all his clothes and forcing him to walk home in his underwear. Malcolm and Hal make up, and the family comes together to clean up the mess that the poker game created.

Overall, the episode is a fun and chaotic romp that highlights the absurdity of gambling and the importance of family. The comedic performances are top-notch, and the poker scenes are particularly enjoyable. It's a classic Malcolm in the Middle episode that will leave viewers laughing and on the edge of their seats.