This classic family sitcom features episodes that focus on life from the child's perspective, particularly Beaver Cleaver's (Jerry Mathers), Most episodes deal with something that Beaver perceives as a problem. Often, by the end of the half hour, the family---usually father Ward---has helped Beaver solve his problem and/or learn a life lesson.
For example, in season one's "Beaver's Short Pants", Aunt Martha visits to take care of "the boys" while mother June is away on a family matter. Martha buys Beaver a suit and cap that look like they were designed for a British schoolboy, with short pants and knee-high socks. As a result, Beaver is teased in school. Eventually, Ward comes to Beaver's rescue. Like other best episodes, this one ends with not just a pithy fatherly comment, but also with a genuine feeling of familial love.
Even at his earliest ages, Jerry Mathers gives a fine performance. It never feels like he is reading a line. And the relationships between the family members seem real, even if it's an idealized family.
I have to say a few words about Eddie Haskell (Ken Osmond). What a great character! He's a conniving trickster who thinks he has the adults fooled with his obsequious manners. And he is always trying to get the other boys in trouble. He's a devil sitting on your shoulder, encouraging bad behavior. He's the equivalent of Seinfeld's "Newman" for Beaver. He's the con man with the oily mustache who offers to hold your money for you.
Jerry Mathers is only a few years older than I, so I kind of grew up with The Beaver. And I loved every minute of it.
For example, in season one's "Beaver's Short Pants", Aunt Martha visits to take care of "the boys" while mother June is away on a family matter. Martha buys Beaver a suit and cap that look like they were designed for a British schoolboy, with short pants and knee-high socks. As a result, Beaver is teased in school. Eventually, Ward comes to Beaver's rescue. Like other best episodes, this one ends with not just a pithy fatherly comment, but also with a genuine feeling of familial love.
Even at his earliest ages, Jerry Mathers gives a fine performance. It never feels like he is reading a line. And the relationships between the family members seem real, even if it's an idealized family.
I have to say a few words about Eddie Haskell (Ken Osmond). What a great character! He's a conniving trickster who thinks he has the adults fooled with his obsequious manners. And he is always trying to get the other boys in trouble. He's a devil sitting on your shoulder, encouraging bad behavior. He's the equivalent of Seinfeld's "Newman" for Beaver. He's the con man with the oily mustache who offers to hold your money for you.
Jerry Mathers is only a few years older than I, so I kind of grew up with The Beaver. And I loved every minute of it.