The Ten "Classic" Episodes
I'm starting a new marathon tonight, in which I'm going to check out what is "generally" considered the top ten most famous eps. Many of these are not my personal faves, but I'm listing these loosely on my observations over the years. Not everyone would agree with this very unscientific roster, but here goes, in broadcast order.
PIONEER WOMEN
I know, this isn't a particulary memorable offering, but it's got the famous loaf-of-bread-out-of-the-oven scene. Everyone seems to remember this moment, even someone I knew who disliked the show. She, and many others find this scene a hoot, even though its lack of logic mars the comedy for me.
LUCY DOES A TV COMMERCIAL
A genuine classic, though I miss Ethel.
JOB SWITCHING
Quite possibly the most famous ILL ep and director William Asher's first.
LUCY IS ENCIENTE
Another classic and Ball's acting is beautiful.
LUCY GOES TO THE HOSPITAL
L.A. AT LAST
Quite a jump in time, but I can't think of a truly more classic ep since "Hospital." ("Ethel's Home Town" is more of a fan fave).
HARPO MARX
Probably the most famous Hollywood show.
LUCY'S ITALIAN MOVIE
Both Ball and Vance sparkle in this gem.
LUCY MEETS SUPERMAN
Even casual viewers love this one.
LUCY DOES THE TANGO
The eggs in the blouse thing is probably the finest example of Ball's singular genius.
Even though season three is my fave, I don't think there's truly a legendary ep here. Also, I went back and forth between "Pioneer Women" and "The Freezer", but in my experience the bread in the oven thing triumphs in terms of memorability.