Ep 18. Blast From the Past

Blast From the Past is the eighteenth episode of the fifth season of the American sitcom show Perfect Strangers. This episode is centered around cousins Larry Appleton and Balki Bartokomous, who are presented with a surprising visitor in their apartment in Chicago.

As the episode begins, Larry and Balki are hanging out in their apartment, making preparations for a surprise party for the former's girlfriend, Jennifer. However, their plans are interrupted when a man named Mark Landow, whom they haven't seen in years, comes knocking on their door. Mark is an old friend from the cousins' past, who they grew up with back in Mypos, Balki's fictional Mediterranean island home.

Initially, the cousins are thrilled to see Mark and they catch up on old times. However, things soon take a turn when they realize that Mark's visit may not be as innocent as they first thought. He reveals that he's currently on the run from the law, having gotten mixed up in some shady dealings involving the mafia. He's hoping that Larry and Balki will be willing to shelter him for a while until the heat dies down and he can figure out his next move.

Larry and Balki are caught in a dilemma. They want to help their old friend, but they know that harboring a fugitive is risky business. They also fear that Mark's presence may put them in danger should the mob come after him. Nonetheless, they decide to accommodate him for a few days to hear his side of the story.

Soon after, Jennifer arrives for the surprise party, but the mood is cautious and subdued with the added stress of sheltering a wanted criminal. Mark does his best to make amends and even offers to help out with the party preparations. However, his criminal past eventually catches up to him as he is tracked down by the mafia. This leads to a thrilling confrontation, which forces the cousins and their friends to band together to protect themselves and Mark.

As the episode progresses, the tension grows, and the situation becomes more dire. Larry and Balki are forced to make some tough choices, which test their friendship and loyalty towards their old friend. They have to decide whether to aid Mark and risk their own safety or turn him in to the authorities. The situation also puts a strain on Balki's trusting and naive nature as he realizes that not all people are as honest as he is accustomed to.

Blast From the Past is a riveting episode that is full of suspense, drama, and humor. It showcases Larry and Balki's strong bond, their sense of loyalty towards their friends, and their ability to rise to the occasion when things get tough. The episode offers a heartwarming reminder of the importance of friendship, even in the face of adversity. In the end, while the cousins' agree with the criminal importance of turning in Mark, the episode ends on a satisfactory note with Jennifer's birthday celebration to bring a sense of levity after a dangerous situation. All in all, Blast From the Past is an episode that will keep viewers on the edge of their seat, leaving them engaged and invested till the very end.