Ep 3. The Fun in Funeral

The show Pushing Daisies is a whimsical and quirky dramedy that follows the life of pie-maker Ned, who has the ability to bring dead things back to life with a single touch. Along with his childhood sweetheart, Charlotte "Chuck" Charles, and a private investigator named Emerson Cod, Ned uses his unique gift to solve murders and mysteries.

In season 1 episode 3, "The Fun in Funeral," the gang finds themselves embroiled in a funeral home murder case. A grumpy funeral director named Bernard Slaybeck (played by guest star Paul Reubens) is accused of killing his business partner, Dwight Dixon, and the evidence is stacked against him. However, when Ned brings Dixon back to life long enough to ask who killed him, the answer points in a completely unexpected direction.

As they investigate the crime, Ned and Emerson discover that Dixon had a secret double life, complete with a secret lover and shady business dealings. Meanwhile, Chuck struggles to come to terms with her own mortality and the fact that one day she will age and die, unlike Ned who can bring her back to life if she dies.

The episode brilliantly weaves together elements of mystery, comedy, and romance, all while showcasing the quirky and charming world of Pushing Daisies. The writing is clever and full of witty one-liners, the acting is top-notch, and the whimsical production design creates a storybook-like atmosphere that is both enchanting and slightly eerie.

One of the standout aspects of the episode is the guest star Paul Reubens, who brings a snarky energy to his portrayal of the shady funeral director. His chemistry with the main cast is fantastic, and his scenes provide some of the episode's funniest moments. The rest of the cast is equally strong, with Lee Pace and Anna Friel's chemistry as Ned and Chuck continuing to sizzle, and Chi McBride's gruff yet lovable Emerson Cod stealing scenes with his dry wit.

Overall, "The Fun in Funeral" is a hilarious and heartwarming episode of Pushing Daisies that showcases the show's unique blend of genres and its winning cast. Fans of the series will love the intricate storytelling and whimsical visuals, while newcomers will be charmed by the show's delightful eccentricity. It's a must-watch for anyone who loves mystery, romance, and a touch of magic.