It's a much funnier series than time has given it credit for being. I think it could be considered underrated by contemporary critics, especially when compared to the other hits of the era that have earned more of a comedic reputation through syndication.
I believe this DVD release is going...
I too love the theatrical small cast outings that play like mini one acts. But I think I prefer "Maude's Night Out," also from the first season, because there's a higher comedy quotient. Also, the comparative triviality of the dialogue makes the realtime construct more powerful.
I think MAUDE...
That could be true of the inferior first version of "The Double Standard," but my hunch about "Arthur's Friends" was correct. I checked and the synopsis is listed in local newspapers on January 13, 1975, meaning that the episode was pulled at the very last minute.
ETA: Found an article in...
Agree with those that prefer the aired versions of both episodes to their unaired counterparts. Wish there was some answer as to why they were both shelved. (Censors is the easy answer, but why exactly?) "Arthur's Friends" has credits and looks ready to air; must've been pulled at the last minute.
Does anyone with prior experience ordering directly from Shout! know how long before the official release date they begin shipping? I'm on baited breath!