Veteran Harry Winkler wrote this "Alice and Sam" episode, for a change of pace. Winkler, to his credit, wrote 4 episodes for the series, but is best known for writing lots of wacky stories the ADDAMS FAMILY.
This is one of those mixup episodes, familiar stuff, though still fun. Marcia and Jan hear Alice making a date with Sam for their regular bowling team match, instead thinking they are planning to ELOPE! You have to admit, Alice and Sam had one long courtship in the series --but ain't getting married YET.
In the meantime, everybody gets ready for a big surprise party for the blissful couple, who were also asked to be best man and maid of honor at a friend's wedding! They are a busy couple.
Again, without fail, and as I have written many times, there are shades of LOVE, AMERICAN STYLE at work here, and of course a plot for all of us
romantics at heart, especially Marsha and Jan.
There's a terrific party at the end, with all the balloons, noisemakers and confetti... and will Sam finally propose to Alice? Stay tuned.
As always, Allen Melvin is fun to watch as good guy Sam, who was also appearing on ALL IN THE FAMILY at the time. I agree with the last reviewer, there's a super gag scene with popular character actress Bella Bruck, who may replace Alice, made to look as one of Carol's friends. Bruck also appeared on the ODD COUPLE in some goofy roles.
From SEASON 5 EPISODE 12 remastered ABC/dvd box set.