'The Gift' is a very pleasant and sometimes very funny 'Three's Company' episode that derives inspiration from an 'I Love Lucy' episode titled 'The Fur Coat'. Stanley & Helen get into another big argument over money, and Jack suggests that Stanley get Helen a fur coat she's coveted in order to appease her.
Complications arise when Chrissy discovers the coat and think it's her birthday present from Jack (who has actually forgotten her birthday). She's so overjoyed with the acquisition that Jack has a hard time telling her the truth. Another case of misunderstanding in the 'Three's Company' tradition.
Among the priceless moments are yet another scene where Jack tries to obtain a loan from the dean of his cooking school. The sleazy grins on the face of character actor William Pierson as he marvels over the amount of women in Jacks' life are just a riot. There is also another prime example of 'Three's Company' physical comedy as Janet tries to put the coat *on* Chrissy while Jack struggles to get it *off*. And, of course, there's a great bit of business as Jack patiently tries to explain the situation to Janet. Even throwaway moments such as Helen swiping Stanleys' peanut butter sandwich are good for a chuckle.
All in all, this is a solid episode that shows all of its cast in fine form.
Seven out of 10.
Complications arise when Chrissy discovers the coat and think it's her birthday present from Jack (who has actually forgotten her birthday). She's so overjoyed with the acquisition that Jack has a hard time telling her the truth. Another case of misunderstanding in the 'Three's Company' tradition.
Among the priceless moments are yet another scene where Jack tries to obtain a loan from the dean of his cooking school. The sleazy grins on the face of character actor William Pierson as he marvels over the amount of women in Jacks' life are just a riot. There is also another prime example of 'Three's Company' physical comedy as Janet tries to put the coat *on* Chrissy while Jack struggles to get it *off*. And, of course, there's a great bit of business as Jack patiently tries to explain the situation to Janet. Even throwaway moments such as Helen swiping Stanleys' peanut butter sandwich are good for a chuckle.
All in all, this is a solid episode that shows all of its cast in fine form.
Seven out of 10.
