Ep 12. So This is How Sinatra Felt
- TVPG
- December 1, 1991
- 23 min
-
7.9 (580)
Al Bundy, the patriarch of the Bundy family, is feeling down and out. As it turns out, he's just turned 45 and is having a bit of a mid-life crisis. He's feeling old and unaccomplished, particularly when compared to his high school nemesis, Aaron, who has supposedly become quite successful. Meanwhile, Peggy Bundy, Al's wife, is feeling a little neglected, as Al seems to be ignoring her in favor of his new red sports car that he's purchased as a symbol of his waning youth. Peggy decides to take it upon herself to try and snap Al out of his funk.
Peggy enlists the help of Aaron, the aforementioned high school nemesis, to come and visit the Bundys. Aaron is now a successful businessman and seems to have everything that Al wishes he had. He's got a trophy wife, a lot of money, and a fancy car. Al, of course, is immediately suspicious of Aaron's intentions, but Peggy insists that he's just there to try and help Al feel better about his current situation.
Things take a turn, however, when it's revealed that Aaron's success might not be entirely legitimate. Al starts to suspect that Aaron is involved in some shady business dealings, and things come to a head when the police show up looking for Aaron. Aaron immediately takes off, leaving Al to deal with the aftermath. Al is now not only feeling old and unaccomplished, but also duped. He realizes that he's been jealous of a man who didn't deserve his admiration, and that he's been neglecting the people who are closest to him.
The episode ultimately ends on a positive note when Al realizes that he's got a lot to be grateful for. He might not be rich or famous, but he's got a loving family and a roof over his head. He also realizes that he's not alone in feeling like he's missed out on life, and that many of his friends are going through similar struggles. He decides to throw a birthday party for himself and to invite all of his buddies over to celebrate with him. Peggy, who has been feeling neglected, is overjoyed that Al has finally come to his senses, and the episode ends with the two of them sharing a romantic moment.
Overall, "So This is How Sinatra Felt" is a classic episode of Married...with Children, touching on themes of aging, jealousy, and the importance of family. It's a testament to the strength of the writing and the acting on the show that it remains relevant and relatable even after all these years. Fans of the show will find a lot to love here, and newcomers will be introduced to the hilarious and dysfunctional world of the Bundys.