Ep 6. Oscar's Ulcer

Oscar Madison and Felix Unger, the famously mismatched roommates of Neil Simon’s classic 1965 play, return to the small screen in a fresh, modern take on the “Odd Couple” sitcom. In season one, episode six, titled “Oscar’s Ulcer,” Oscar (played by Matthew Perry) finds himself in need of medical attention after developing an ulcer.

The episode begins with Oscar feeling increasingly worn down and irritable as he struggles with the stress of co-parenting his teenage son with his ex-wife, Gaby. Despite Felix’s (played by Thomas Lennon) repeated offers to help out with the parenting duties, Oscar insists on handling things himself, convinced that he’s the only one who knows how to deal with his son.

As the day wears on, however, Oscar’s stomach pains become too much to bear, and he’s forced to concede that he needs medical attention. Felix accompanies him to the hospital, of course, and as they sit in the waiting room, the two begin to bicker as usual. This time, however, their argument is cut short by the arrival of a friendly, seemingly perfect couple who strike up a conversation with Oscar and Felix.

The couple, who have been married for six years and have two children, seem to have everything together, from their impressive careers to their charming personalities. As the four of them chat, Oscar begins to feel even more insecure and inadequate than usual, convinced that he’ll never measure up to the couple’s seemingly perfect life.

Finally, the doctor arrives and diagnoses Oscar with an ulcer, attributing it to the stress of his parenting situation. Oscar is prescribed medication and instructed to make some lifestyle changes to reduce his stress levels. As he and Felix leave the hospital, Oscar is still feeling down and dejected, convinced that he’ll never be able to live up to the couple’s perfect example.

However, as the episode progresses, Oscar begins to realize that the couple’s seemingly ideal life isn’t as perfect as it appears. They confide in Oscar and Felix that they’ve been struggling with their marriage lately, and that their “perfect” facade is just a cover-up for their deep-seated issues.

As Oscar reflects on his own life and the challenges he’s faced, he comes to a realization that he’s not as hapless and hopeless as he’s always believed. Despite his many flaws and mistakes, he’s managed to raise a son who loves and respects him, and that’s no small feat.

With this newfound confidence, Oscar is able to take charge of his parenting situation and work with Felix to come up with some creative solutions to the challenges they’re facing. He also realizes that he doesn’t have to be perfect to be happy, and that it’s okay to ask for help when he needs it.

Overall, “Oscar’s Ulcer” is a heartwarming episode that touches on themes of insecurity, self-doubt, and the perils of trying to live up to impossible standards. Perry and Lennon’s excellent chemistry as the odd couple adds an extra layer of humor and warmth to the proceedings, making this an episode that fans of the classic show and new viewers alike will enjoy.