All in the Family (TV Series) Flashback: Mike Meets Archie (1971) User Reviews

Meathead is introduced

[gregorycanfield · 10/10 · 12 October 2021]

On Mike and Gloria's first anniversary, we get a flashback to Mike and Archie's first meeting. Since Gloria had the nerve to ask Archie to wear a tie, it was curious that Archie didn't question her short, short dress. Personally, I would have liked her dress to be even shorter, but we all know how Archie viewed such things. I love the way Archie and Mike meet, and start rubbing each other the wrong way, right off the bat. They argue about the same issues that became their standard topics of debate. When Archie insults Mike's nationality, Mike yells: "You're prejudiced! You're prejudiced!" This scene is a perfect depiction of what evolved into political correctness. Yes. Archie is prejudiced, and prejudice is wrong. However, a bigot shouldn't be equated with a murderer. Mike's reaction to Archie's remark was so violent, you would think Archie had "done" something, rather than simply saying something. Overall, a great episode, made great by all the stars. It's also amazing that I could focus on all this other stuff, when I started out thinking of Gloria's short dress!

Mike attacks the man who will provide for him

[vitoscotti · 8/10 · 16 October 2021]

Archie is no bargain. But, Mike is very hostile with his liberal opinions forced on people. He cares about society's ills, but not the people who have to listen to him. In real life it would be unrealistic two hostile opposites could live under one roof for multiple years granted how vehement both are.

First time meeting between bigot Archie and hippie Mike

[Jimmy_the_Gent4 · 29 October 2017]

A flashback when Gloria first introduces Mike to her parents.

A great episode with many hilarious moments. This is the one where Archie sings "God Bless America" while calling Mike a dumb Polack. The arguments between the two start right away, Mike blurts out that he cannot live with this man after he and Gloria get married. Edith thinks it's great but Archie yells out "So what am I supposed to do, join the navy?!"