Oscar Madison & Felix Unger, two characters who were born out of the brainchild of the supremely talented Neil Simon. After being a successful play the idea was transfered to the big silver screen in 1968 with highly acclaimed results, the roles of the two men were taken by Walter Matthau {Oscar}and Jack Lemon {Felix}. For this TV incarnation, that would run for five seasons, the roles were taken by Jack Klugman {Oscar} and Tony Randall {Felix}, and the result is comedy gold.
The basic premise of the characters is that they are best friends, who upon being single try to share an apartment together, the trouble is is that they are polar opposites, Oscar is a slob, he boozes, chases women and generally makes mess, whilst Felix is in touch with his feminine side, hates mess, loves to cook and clean, and butter wouldn't melt in his mouth. This makes for much mirth as the pair constantly clash with their opposing ideals, but a deep rooted love and respect for each other is always threatening to break out.
For this opening episode Oscar has arranged for a double date with the English girls from upstairs, Oscar purely wants to have his fun with the girls but Felix is intent on doing the laundry, girls or no girls. It's a real solid start to the show, the gags come thick and fast and the chemistry between Klugman and Randall is as good as it gets, a truly great show begins.
The basic premise of the characters is that they are best friends, who upon being single try to share an apartment together, the trouble is is that they are polar opposites, Oscar is a slob, he boozes, chases women and generally makes mess, whilst Felix is in touch with his feminine side, hates mess, loves to cook and clean, and butter wouldn't melt in his mouth. This makes for much mirth as the pair constantly clash with their opposing ideals, but a deep rooted love and respect for each other is always threatening to break out.
For this opening episode Oscar has arranged for a double date with the English girls from upstairs, Oscar purely wants to have his fun with the girls but Felix is intent on doing the laundry, girls or no girls. It's a real solid start to the show, the gags come thick and fast and the chemistry between Klugman and Randall is as good as it gets, a truly great show begins.
