Ep 1. A Touch Of Class

In the iconic British comedy series, Fawlty Towers, season 1 episode 1, titled "A Touch of Class," the audience is introduced to the eccentric and erratic hotel owner, Basil Fawlty, played by John Cleese, and his long-suffering wife, Sybil, played by Prunella Scales. In this episode, the Fawltys are preparing for the arrival of Lord Melbury, a wealthy and aristocratic guest. Basil is determined to impress this esteemed guest and secure his business, but things quickly go awry.

As guests begin to check in, chaos ensues in the hotel. The bumbling and dim-witted Spanish waiter, Manuel, played by Andrew Sachs, struggles to understand English and, as a result, causes confusion and frustration for guests and staff alike. Meanwhile, Basil attempts to swindle a group of American tourists and hides a dead rat in the dining room, only to have it discovered by a health inspector.

As Lord Melbury finally arrives, Basil's eagerness to please him leads him down a dangerous path. He is tricked into giving Lord Melbury a large sum of money and even goes so far as to steal from another guest to try and repay him. In classic Fawlty Towers fashion, everything that could go wrong does go wrong, resulting in a hilarious and chaotic finale.

The comedic genius of John Cleese is on full display in this episode as he portrays Basil Fawlty, a character that is simultaneously charming and infuriating. The sharp and quick-witted writing keeps the audience on their toes, with unexpected twists and turns at every corner. The eccentric cast of characters, including the lovable but frustrating Manuel and the stern but humorous Sybil, add to the hilarity of the show.

Overall, "A Touch of Class" sets the tone for what would become a beloved and highly praised television series. It is a masterful blend of physical comedy, witty dialogue, and memorable characters that have made it a classic in the world of comedy. Fans of British humor will undoubtedly love every moment of this iconic episode, and new viewers will be welcomed into the world of Fawlty Towers with open arms.