Ep 5. Dick, Smoker

Dick, Smoker is the fifth episode of the first season of 3rd Rock from the Sun. The episode follows the Solomons, a group of aliens from the planet-remnant of Zircon who have taken on human form for a research mission on Earth. The show largely explores the curious and bumbling nature of the Solomons as they navigate the intricacies of human life.

In this episode, the focus is on the eldest Solomon, Dr. Dick Solomon, played by John Lithgow. Dick is a physics professor at a local university, and this episode sees him dealing with an addiction to cigarettes. The Solomons are initially perplexed by the allure and popularity of smoking on Earth, but Dick in particular becomes infatuated with the habit. The episode opens with Dick sneaking cigarettes in a bathroom stall at work, giving a glimpse into his struggle with addiction.

The episode showcases the lengths that Dick goes to in order to hide his smoking from his colleagues and loved ones. He attempts to hide the smell of smoke from his clothes, toothbrush, and even his own breath using various products such as cologne, toothpaste, and mouthwash. The Solomons, intrigued by this newfound human obsession, join in on the act and begin smoking themselves. It's worth noting that the show aired in the late 90s when smoking was still much more socially acceptable and widely consumed.

As the episode progresses, Dick finds himself having to attend a series of meetings with fellow smokers at the university. He tries to deny that he has a problem and resists their efforts to help him quit. However, he eventually realizes that he is actually addicted and decides to make a go at quitting. The show tackles addiction with a humorous twist, but it's interesting to see how seriously it is taken and how Dick comes to understand the severity of his habit.

Throughout the episode, there are also some subplots involving the other Solomons. Sally (played by Kristen Johnston) takes on a job at a seedy bar to better understand humans, whilst Tommy (played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt) becomes a star athlete after discovering his incredible strength. These two storylines are much less developed than the main smoking arc but provide some fun diversions from the main plot.

Overall, Dick, Smoker is an enjoyable episode that manages to deal with addiction in a lighthearted and comedic way. Lithgow's performance is fantastic, and his struggle with quitting smoking is well-executed. The episode also provides some interesting insights into the human fascination with cigarettes and smoking, which still resonate today. It's not the most standout episode of the series, but it's a fun watch that provides some laughs and a bit of heart.