“Opie the Birdman”
Tomorrow, Sept. 30, marks the anniversary of the original 1963 airing of one of the best half-hours in television history.
"Opie the Birdman" isn't just one of the most touching looks at the parent-child relationship ever. It's also a classic lesson in taking responsibility for a wrong and striving to earn redemption.
And about when caring means letting go.
Great, great performances from Griffith and Ron Howard, along with some delightful comic bits from Don Knotts.
The understated music, the perfect pacing...everything comes together in this terrific 30 minutes.
But it all starts, and ends, with some really fine writing.
"But don't the trees seem nice and full."
