Ep 3. Major Star

BlackAdder season 4 episode 3, titled "Major Star," is another hilarious installment in the beloved British sitcom. Set during World War I, the episode follows the misadventures of Captain BlackAdder (played by Rowan Atkinson) as he tries to keep his sanity amidst the chaos of the trenches.

The episode opens with BlackAdder and his trusty sidekick Baldrick (Tony Robinson) stationed in the trenches, where they are digging tunnels to try and gain an advantage over the Germans. However, their task is made much more difficult by the constant bombardment, the rats, and Baldrick's endless stream of pointless ramblings.

Just when things couldn't get any worse, BlackAdder is ordered to oversee a concert featuring the famous entertainer, George "Starry" Robertson (played by guest star Jim Broadbent). Despite his initial skepticism, BlackAdder soon realizes that having a renowned star perform for the troops could be a major morale boost.

However, it quickly becomes clear that "Starry" Robertson is not quite what he seems. He is rude, arrogant, and prone to throwing tantrums at the slightest provocation. To make matters worse, he is constantly swigging from his hip flask and often forgets the words to his own songs.

BlackAdder and Baldrick try their best to keep the performer in line, but their efforts are thwarted at every turn. In one memorable scene, "Starry" insists on wearing a ridiculous costume for his performance, which leads to a series of comedic mishaps involving a herd of cows.

Despite the setbacks, the concert eventually goes ahead, and "Starry" performs his signature song, "Believe Me, If All Those Endearing Young Charms." The soldiers are thrilled, and BlackAdder briefly allows himself to feel hopeful about the war.

However, in typical BlackAdder fashion, his hopes are dashed when it is revealed that "Starry" is actually a German spy who has been using his performances as a cover to gather intelligence. The episode ends with BlackAdder and Baldrick back in the trenches, more disillusioned than ever before.

Overall, "Major Star" is a perfect example of the clever writing, sharp wit, and excellent performances that made BlackAdder such a beloved show. Fans of the series will love this episode for its mix of slapstick humor and biting satire, as well as its poignant commentary on the futility of war.