Technical Specs

Director: Joseph Pevney

Writers: Joe Connelly and Bob Mosher

Cast: Fred Gwynne, Yvonne De Carlo, Al Lewis, Pat Priest, Butch Patrick, Ken Lynch, Herb Armstrong, Ronnie Haran, Mike Winkelman, and Doris Singleton

Composer: Jack Marshall

Air Date: 2/25/1965

Overview

While secretly moonlighting as a detective, Herman manages to arouse Lily’s suspicions with his inexplicable absences from home. Concerned with her husband’s late-night activities, Lily hires a detective agency to keep tabs on Herman, who ends up following himself after getting stuck with Lily’s case.

Though occasionally light on substance, “Follow That Munster” makes good use of a silly but clever mix-up scenario. Especially amusing are Herman’s not-so-subtle disguises, several of which will appeal to fans of politically incorrect comedy.

Pros

During his first attempt at real detective work (i.e. stalking a young couple), Herman dresses up as a pilgrim, a gentleman, and Charlie Chan. Of course, because Herman resembles the Frankenstein’s monster of Universal Studios fame, the aforementioned disguises actually make him appear more conspicuous while in public, thus resulting in a humorous reaction from said couple. In addition to his offensive cultural stereotypes, Herman offers a great deal of amusement when he and Grandpa rely on the description of their suspect to draw a sketch of his face, only to find that the “philanderer” in question looks suspiciously like Herman.

Cons

While “Follow That Munster” is played strictly for laughs, Herman and Lily’s relationship borders on dysfunctional at times.

Analysis

As indicated above, Lily’s distrustful and abusive behavior toward Herman serves to undermine the core family dynamics upon which The Munsters was based. That being said, this episode teaches a valuable lesson on why family members should never withhold information from one another.

Concluding Comments

By combining a hilarious misunderstanding with another one of Herman’s goofy shticks, “Follow That Munster” succeeds as a screwball comedy piece. While a drawn-out conclusion stretches thin Joe Connelly and Bob Mosher’s premise, Herman’s idiotic disguises will amuse fans of The Munsters for obvious reasons.

Overall Quality: 7/10

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