Ep 5. Summer School

The Comic Strip Presents is a well-known British television comedy series that first aired in 1982. It features numerous comedy sketches with a variety of themes, characters, and situations. One of the standout episodes of season one is episode five, titled "Summer School."

In this episode, a group of bumbling schoolteachers are sent to a summer school for a training course. The teachers are a motley crew of misfits, each with their own unique quirks and flaws. The instructors at the summer school are equally eccentric, and the clash of personalities makes for plenty of comedic hijinks.

One of the main highlights of the episode is the excellent ensemble cast, which includes famous British actors like Adrian Edmondson, Dawn French, Nigel Planer, and Jennifer Saunders. They all play their respective roles with great gusto, bringing plenty of laughs to the proceedings.

The plot of the episode is driven by the interactions between the teachers and their instructors. The teachers are initially hesitant to engage in the various training exercises and seminars, but they eventually get into the spirit of things. Meanwhile, the instructors have their own issues to deal with, and their personal problems often creep into their professional duties.

Throughout the episode, there are plenty of hilarious set pieces and memorable lines. Some of the highlights include a disastrous attempt at orienteering, a surreal dream sequence, and a botched attempt at a high ropes course. The humor is very much in the vein of classic British slapstick and wordplay, with plenty of absurdity and whimsy.

Of course, there are also some genuinely touching moments in the episode as well. The characters all have their own unique struggles and insecurities, and there are several heartwarming scenes that highlight their personal growth and friendships. The overall message of the episode is one of learning to embrace your flaws and work together as a team, which is a timeless theme that resonates with audiences of all ages.

Overall, "Summer School" is a standout episode of The Comic Strip Presents. It's a hilarious and heartwarming comedy that showcases the talents of some of the best comedic actors in British television history. The episode is a must-watch for anyone who loves classic British humor or is just looking for a good laugh.