Monthly Archives: December 2017

Blind Faith – February 6, 1964



Sam leaps into Andrew Ross, the “Ray Charles of classical piano”, according to Al – Andrew, you see, is blind. Sam is there to save Andrew’s friend, Michelle, from being strangled in Central Park the following night. But in the meantime, he was to pretend he is blind, contend with Michelle’s overbearing mother when she discovers “Andrew” can see, and – most importantly – play Carnegie Hall.

Sam Fain and Dennis discuss what they call the first “regular, formula” episode of the series, what it owes to the serial killer tropes so popular in the 80s, and Dennis reveals what scene from this episode his college friends totally stole for their ultra-low-budget horror movie.

We frequently use these references: Beyond the Mirror Image: The Observer’s Guide to Quantum Leap, available at http://www.lulu.com/us/en/shop/matt-dale/beyond-the-mirror-image/hardcover/product-23098157.html
and

What Price, Gloria? – October 16, 1961



Sam is Samantha Stormer, an executive assistant at the National Motor Company in 1961 Detroit. Trapped in a body of a beautiful woman, Sam must endure sexual harassment from his boss, and stop Samantha’s best friend, Gloria, from committing suicide after learning her married husband will never actually leave his wife. Meanwhile, Al struggles with having his best friend having the appearance of a gorgeous knock out.

Sam Fain and Dennis are joined by previous guest hosts Annie Petrusek, Claire Feeney and Jessica Conger to discuss the episode.

We would be remiss if we didn’t also note that this episode deals with the topic of suicide. If you or anyone you know need support, please call The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273-8255 (In the U.S.A.; for listeners in other countries, please visit the International Association for Suicide Prevention.)

We frequently use these references: Beyond the Mirror Image: The Observer’s Guide to Quantum Leap, available at http://www.lulu.com/us/en/shop/matt-dale/beyond-the-mirror-image/hardcover/product-23098157.html
and

The Americanization of Machiko – August 4, 1953



Sam is Charlie MacKenzie, a Korean war vet returning home to Oak Creek, Ohio…with his new bride, Machiko. Sam must get Charlie’s mother to accept the new member of the family, while also contending with an ex-girlfriend determined to win Charlie back, as well as a prejudiced WWII vet determined to harm Machiko.

Sam Fain thinks he doesn’t have much to say about this episode at the outset, but it turns out he actually has quite a lot to say. Dennis has an endearing personal story about his mom taping the Comedy Central Roast of William Shatner for him, and Sam thinks that two minute story has more heart than this entire entry of Quantum Leap.

Your mileage may vary.

We frequently use these references: Beyond the Mirror Image: The Observer’s Guide to Quantum Leap, available at http://www.lulu.com/us/en/shop/matt-dale/beyond-the-mirror-image/hardcover/product-23098157.html
and