Ep 20. Something Larry This Way Comes

In the 20th episode of the ninth season of Married... With Children, titled Something Larry This Way Comes, the Bundy family faces yet another peculiar situation that highlights their unique brand of humor and dysfunction. Al and Peggy Bundy, the perpetually struggling couple, find themselves entrenched in yet another round of misadventures while trying to navigate their lives in suburban Chicago.

As the episode unfolds, the viewer is reintroduced to the quintessential dynamics of the Bundy household. Al, the long-suffering shoe salesman with a knack for discontent, finds himself overwhelmed by the relentless demands of his family, which are humorously exaggerated as always. Meanwhile, Peggy, ever the self-centered housewife who feels more like a free spirit than a domestic diva, is wrapped up in her own whims and desires, contributing to the chaos that is characteristic of their lives.

The episode kicks off with Al in a particularly grouchy mood, which is typical for him, but this time, it stems from an unexpected visit. A longtime acquaintance of Al's—Larry, a once-distant childhood friend who has found success and a new lifestyle—arrives on the scene, bringing with him a wave of nostalgia and envy. Larry represents everything Al has ever despised: he is prosperous, charming, and seemingly living the American Dream that has always eluded Al. This juxtaposition sets the stage for hilarity as Al grapples with his insecurities about his own life and decisions.

As Larry begins to reconnect with Al, the Bundy family’s reactions are varied and comical. Kelly, the oblivious but loveable daughter, is excited at the prospect of having a new friend, while Bud, the ever-ambitious son, sees Larry as a potential threat to his own schemes and machinations. This friction between siblings and Larry creates a myriad of opportunities for comedic exchanges, filled with the iconic one-liners and slapstick humor that fans of the show have come to love.

While Al tries to maintain a facade of indifference to Larry's apparent success, Peggy becomes increasingly enchanted by the image of a life that involves glamour, excitement, and the finer things. Peggy’s relentless pursuit of attention and admiration from Larry leads her to concoct a series of misguided plans in an effort to impress him. Diverted by her own fantasies, Peggy’s antics add a layer of absurdity to the episode as she becomes embroiled in attempts to imitate the lifestyle that Larry represents.

Meanwhile, as the adults engage in their shenanigans, the younger Bundys, Bud and Kelly, come up with their own schemes to undermine or exploit Larry's presence. Themes of competitiveness and jealousy bubble to the surface in classic Bundy style, with every character trying to one-up each other in their interactions with Larry. The witty dialogue and timing bring both charm and chaos as the show delves into the absurdity of keeping up appearances in front of a supposed successful friend.

With every passing moment, the cracks in Larry's seemingly perfect life begin to become visible, leading to a comedic investigation of what success really means. As Al attempts to showcase his own attributes—through an awkward combination of bluster and embarrassment—the episode raises questions about the nature of fulfillment, the definitions of winning, and the complex relationships between childhood friends who have taken radically different paths in life.

The episode culminates as the Bundy household finds itself embroiled in hilarious misunderstandings and confrontations, resulting in a series of laugh-out-loud moments that demonstrate the show's signature humor. Fans can expect unexpected twists, outrageous scenarios, and the typical hilarity that accompanies the Bundy family’s misadventures.

Something Larry This Way Comes presents a classic Married... With Children experience filled with outrageous comedic situations, character-driven antics, and endless quotable moments. As Al grapples with his self-worth in the face of Larry's success, viewers are treated to a narrative that comically explores themes of envy, friendship, and the often ludicrous nature of suburban life. The episode is a delightful reminder of why the Bundys remain one of television's most iconic and beloved dysfunctional families, encapsulating the humor and heart that has made the show a staple in American pop culture.