Technical Specs

Director: Ezra Stone

Writers: Joe Connelly and Bob Mosher

Cast: Yvonne De Carlo, Al Lewis, Beverley Owen, Butch Patrick, Fred Gwynne, Maxie Rosenbloom, Val Avery, Lennie Weinrib, and Lee Krieger

Composer: Jack Marshall

Air Date: 12/3/1964

Overview

After Herman falls asleep in the back of his Cadillac, three bank-robbing goons hijack the vehicle with the Munster patriarch still inside. When Herman finally awakens, the gangsters mistake the goofy green giant for a getaway driver named Big Louie (Maxie Rosenbloom).

Fans of The Munsters will certainly appreciate this episode for its effective combination of cheesy monster puns and ludicrous special effects. Though “The Midnight Ride of Herman Munster” derives much of its comedic value from the oft-used misunderstanding trope, writers Joe Connelly and Bob Mosher offered a fresh approach to this recycled scenario.

Pros

In this case, Herman’s clueless behavior allows him to participate in a criminal act without losing his innocent charm in the process. Notably, his oblivious dealings with the equally naïve bank robbers and policemen give Herman the chance to play the hero, albeit inadvertently, in a most amusing fashion.

Adding to the absurdity of this asinine premise, the gangster trio repeatedly bullies and threatens a complicit Herman, even though his physical advantage over others should be obvious. The fact that Herman refuses to harm his aggressors and instead reacts to his situation with good humor will only further endear this lovable monster to new audiences.

Cons

None.

Analysis

Despite Lily’s initial doubts regarding Herman’s loyalty, “The Midnight Ride of Herman Munster” serves as a testament to the love and cohesion shared by the eponymous family. By stopping at nothing to ensure Herman’s safety upon learning of his disappearance, the central characters demonstrate how dearly they care for one another, regardless of the fact that their occasional disagreements and verbal sparring matches would suggest otherwise.

Concluding Comments

“The Midnight Ride of Herman Munster” contains all the elements of a series classic. Those who enjoy The Munsters for its awful special effects will appreciate Grandpa’s magic method of apprehending the real Big Louie, while fans of Herman’s good-hearted nature should admire his childlike response to an upsetting circumstance.

Overall Quality: 10/10

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