Dom-I am intrigued that the earliest shows are your favorites, may I ask why? I have always liked them because of their atmosphere, way different from the rest of the show, IMHO. Maybe it's the black and white.
Hi Cassandra B,
I love everything about the early shows. The black and white, the atmosphere it created. The writing, the acting, the use of outdoor shots - everything technical was splendid.
I've read many fan opinions that the early storylines moved a little too slow for their taste. I wasn't bothered by it because it afforded us to learn so much about the characters. Not much was left out and left to our imagination. If someone was going to visit someone you actually saw them get in the car, arrive, knock on the door and have their little meeting.
What I enjoy the most though is the interactions between the characters. Because the show is new and we have to learn what drives these people. We get to see extended conversations between them that gives us insight as to why they are the way they are. I guess I enjoy watching the characters evolve. More like a traditional soap-opera. 99% of my favorite scenes or episodes come from the early storylines. The interactions between Liz and Roger are priceless. Liz is my favorite character. Her role was exquisitely written. It's like she puts on a different face for each person she comes in contact with. Her interactions with David are not to be missed. Viki and Roger are my two other faves. There are some scenes of Viki with David that are emmy worthy. Roger was a plain old hoot! Wonderfully written, and marvelously acted by Louie.
Have to mention the entry of Laura into the storyline. Wow, she really kicked things up a notch or two. Her first two episodes are classic soap-opera at it's best.
An aside: Loved the first Sam Evans - hated to see him go.
I first saw these episodes as an adult. I doubt I'd have felt the same if I had seen them as a kid. Which has everything to do with it, I guess.
Have fun watching during the pre-empts.
dom