3. Carlton Takes Uppers S3. Ep19
Comedic and dramatic moments are not completely separate entities, but are usually both present in many, if not every situation. Take drug use, for instance: when most sitcoms do the obligatory drug episode it's usually a very heavy-handed, overly dramatic affair (
see Saved By the Bell) - people get careless, accidents occur, tears are shed, and lessons are learned; the end. It's what our friend Blossom refers to as the very special episode, and by special, she clearly meant devoid of any laughter or levity. But you know as well as I that drug use can be freaking hilarious (see Half Baked): getting high, stoned, lit, or blazed has been the basis of many great comedic moments in television and film (getting high even inspired a film genre, The Stoner Comedy). So credit The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air with going against the grain and showing both the humorous and dramatic consequences of drug use. The humor of the situation is supplied chiefly by Carlton (played by multi-talented actor, Alfonso Ribeiro). Will scored some speed from a fellow classmate to help keep him energized as he was falling behind with school and extra-curricular commitments. Carlton accidentally took some (mistaking them for vitamins) and has a very energetic drug trip at the school dance. It was great watching Will's straight-laced cousin let loose for a bit, and Alfonso really showed off in the scene, showcasing his talents as a highly trained dancer (which he did a lot throughout the series). Overall, it was a hilarious moment and showed that not all is doom and gloom when it comes to drugs. http://youtu.be/JrhHqTv_kvA But as they say, what goes up must come down. Carlton peaks, then crashes with a thud, ending up in the hospital. Once again, it falls on Will to own up to his actions and explain himself to Uncle Phil and the family, only this time there is no counter argument for Uncle Phil's reprimand. Will is truly sorry for his actions and delivers a heartbreaking and moving monologue - it's a great scene that shows a young Will Smith developing some serious acting chops. http://youtu.be/zqZFzzp0IR8