Ep 20. The Case of the Pillow

The Dick Van Dyke Show, a beloved classic of American television, ran from 1961 to 1966 and is known for its witty writing, memorable characters, and the charismatic performances led by Dick Van Dyke himself. The show is set in the early 1960s and centers around the life of Rob Petrie (played by Van Dyke), a writer for the fictional "Alan Brady Show." He is joined by his loving and often insightful wife, Laura (Mary Tyler Moore), his comedic co-writers Buddy Sorrell (Morey Amsterdam) and Sally Rogers (Rose Marie), and his gruff but kind-hearted boss, Mel Cooley (Richard Deacon).

Season 4, Episode 20 entitled The Case of the Pillow is an iconic example of the show's ability to blend situational comedy with a slice of domestic life, all while exploring the intricacies of married life and the often-blurred line between personal and professional spheres for Rob.

In this episode, viewers are taken on an amusing and enlightening journey into the Petrie household. The episode begins with a common domestic issue: a disagreement between Rob and Laura that arises from something seemingly trivial – this time, it's about a pillow. While the pillow itself is the catalyst for the episode's plot, it serves as a metaphor for the larger communication issues and minor squabbles that can be familiar to any married couple.

Rob is convinced that the pillow in question—a new household item that doesn't match his comfort criteria—is the root of his recent sleepless nights and resulting crankiness. Laura, on the other hand, is more concerned with the aesthetic value and decor perfection the pillow adds to their home, showing the subtle comedic battle of form versus function that many couples experience.

As with many episodes of The Dick Van Dyke Show, the situation escalates in a humorously exaggerated fashion. The pillow becomes a point of contention that infiltrates not only their home life but also Rob's workplace. While at the office, Rob is noticeably tired and distracted, which does not go unnoticed by his sharp-tongued yet supportive colleagues Buddy and Sally. Eventually, the topic of the pillow comes up, leading to a range of reactions and advice from his friends and coworkers.

What makes this episode particularly engaging is the dialogue and the dynamic interplay among the characters. Buddy's quick wit and penchant for one-liners, juxtaposed with Sally's sassy yet empathetic nature, give Rob both the comedic distraction and the practical input he needs to navigate his matrimonial pillow predicament. Meanwhile, Laura does not shy away from bringing her perspective and humor into the conversation, leading to some classic repartee that is both relatable and endearing to the viewer.

As Rob grapples with what to do about the pillow, the episode also touches on the importance of compromise and understanding in a relationship. Without giving away any spoilers, it is safe to say that the resolution of the episode's plot encapsulates the show's ability to address common relationship pitfalls in a light-hearted but meaningful manner. The resolution is not just a conclusion to the episode's story arc but also provides a commentary on the Petries’ marriage—a relationship grounded in love, respect, and cooperation, despite the occasional miscommunication.

The Case of the Pillow stands out as a shining example of The Dick Van Dyke Show's timeless appeal. The episode finds humor in the everyday while not shying away from representing a realistic, albeit idealized, view of marriage. The show overall is a mix of slapstick, clever wordplay, and physical comedy, and this episode is no different. Dick Van Dyke's adept physical comedy skills are on full display, blending seamlessly with Mary Tyler Moore's charm, creating moments that have become etched in the annals of comedy history.

The direction and production of the show, which holds up remarkably well, allow the viewer to feel like a fly on the wall of the Petrie household and the bustling writers' room. The sets—from the suburban home to the busy office—act as perfect backdrops for the comedy to unfold, highlighting the cultural and design aesthetics of the early '60s.

In summary, The Case of the Pillow is an episode that delivers the quintessential elements of The Dick Van Dyke Show: relatable storytelling, endearing characters, and a balance of humor and heart. It is a snapshot of American television comedy at its finest, tackling the little things in life that often mean the most.