Ep 10. The Crunge (a.k.a. The S.A.T.s)

"The Crunge" (a.k.a. "The S.A.T.s") is the tenth episode of the fifth season of the popular comedy series, That '70s Show. Set in 1978, the show primarily revolves around a group of teenage friends living in the fictional town of Point Place, Wisconsin. This episode delivers a hilarious and relatable storyline as the gang faces the daunting challenge of taking the S.A.T. (Scholastic Aptitude Test) exams.

As the episode begins, the air is thick with anxiety as the gang, consisting of Eric Forman (Topher Grace), Donna Pinciotti (Laura Prepon), Michael Kelso (Ashton Kutcher), Jackie Burkhardt (Mila Kunis), Steven Hyde (Danny Masterson), and Fez (Wilmer Valderrama), prepares for the S.A.T.s. Understandably, they are all feeling the pressure of these important exams, which they believe will shape their futures.

Each character has their own unique approach to tackling the S.A.T.s. Eric is determined to study nonstop and achieve a perfect score, while Donna decides to take a more relaxed approach, relying on her innate intelligence. Kelso, on the other hand, is clearly not taking the exams seriously, much to the frustration of Jackie, who wants him to succeed. Hyde demonstrates his nonchalant attitude by confidently claiming that he doesn't need to study at all, relying instead on his street smarts. Meanwhile, Fez, being an international student, faces the additional challenge of unfamiliarity with the American education system.

As the gang gathers at the Forman household to study, tensions quickly rise. Eric, feeling the weight of expectations from his parents and peers, becomes increasingly agitated and stressed. However, his frustration reaches new heights when Red Forman (Kurtwood Smith), Eric's father, reveals that he himself achieved a perfect score on the S.A.T.s. This revelation further intensifies the pressure on Eric to live up to his father's accomplishments.

Meanwhile, Jackie takes it upon herself to help Kelso study, despite his lack of interest. She tries various tactics to engage him, even resorting to using romantic gestures as motivation. Kelso's inability to focus and his disinterest in anything academic result in a series of comedic situations that provide levity amidst the tension.

Hyde's confidence remains unwavering as he continues to insist on not studying. Instead, he decides to adopt a unique strategy involving meditation and summoning his inner Zen for test-taking success. Fez, however, feels increasingly overwhelmed by the material and expresses his concerns to the group. The gang rallies around him, offering encouragement and promising to help him prepare for the exams.

Outside of the study group, other storylines unfold in typical That '70s Show fashion. Donna's parents, Bob (Don Stark) and Midge (Tanya Roberts), navigate their own comedic journey as they mistakenly believe their daughter and Eric are planning to get married. Red and Kitty (Debra Jo Rupp) Forman, Eric's parents, also showcase their unique dynamic as they navigate the challenges of supporting their son through the stress of the S.A.T.s.

Throughout the episode, laughter and lightheartedness prevail, even in the face of academic pressure. The characters' endearing and relatable personalities shine, as they lean on one another for support and engage in hilarious banter. The episode beautifully captures the experiences and challenges faced by teenagers approaching a turning point in their educational journeys.

"The Crunge" (a.k.a. "The S.A.T.s") is a delightful, comedic episode of That '70s Show that explores the anxieties and comedic mishaps surrounding the gang's preparation for the S.A.T. exams. With its humorous storyline, endearing characters, and relatable teenage experiences, this episode is sure to entertain fans and leave them eagerly anticipating what's to come next.