Square Pegs: No SubstitutionsCBS
February 14, 1983
Sitcom
DVD
B
This Andy Borowitz story takes a different approach than I was expecting. To begin with, we just saw an episode where Rob Donovan (Steven Peterman) was the "unconventional" teacher, but here he has to be the sane one in comparison to substitute teacher Jack McNulty, played by Bill Murray at his most billmurrayness. He comes in and sweeps Patty, the school, and the episode off their feet, so it's hard for the viewer to get his or her bearings. One minute McNulty comes across as a charming predator and then the next we're not meant to take anything he says or does seriously. Lauren, loyal to Rob, is the only one who doesn't fall for McNulty, although she's initially pleased when he pairs her up with Vinnie for the class mock-marriage assignment. (Johnny seems pleased to be paired with Muffy, who's revolted, while Marshall and Jennifer both seem mildly annoyed by their marriage. And LaDonna is a widow.) While McNulty does some questionable things here (including insulting students), Murray is of course a funny scene-stealer. And, yes, and another SNL connection.
Karen Armstrong again appears as Cindy.
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