The Addams Family, a creation born from the darkly comedic and sophisticated mind of cartoonist Charles Addams, first graced the pages of “The New Yorker” magazine. These weren’t just any characters; they were a family revelling in the macabre, an affluent group with a taste for the gloomy, effectively making Addams the godfather of goth sensibility. When the idea emerged to bring these ink drawings to life as a television series, it coincidentally happened alongside another family with a peculiar twist, “The Munsters,” debuting the same season. This timing, while serendipitous, unfortunately set the stage for constant comparisons between the two shows due to their superficial similarities. However, to truly appreciate each show is to understand their distinct qualities.
While “The Munsters” often leaned heavily into slapstick comedy, “The Addams Family” distinguished itself with its clever wordplay and witty humor, aiming for a more sophisticated laugh. Yet, the true difference, the secret ingredient that set The Addams Family apart from their counterparts on Mockingbird Lane, can be summed up in one word: passion.
Yes, the Addams family resided in a wonderfully eerie mansion, indulged in bizarre hobbies, had rather unusual culinary preferences, and kept spooky pets. But at the very heart of this wonderfully eccentric family was a profound and palpable love, most notably between Gomez and Morticia, a love that extended to every member of their peculiar household. John Astin and Carolyn Jones, in their iconic roles, were nothing short of television magic, embodying a couple whose on-screen chemistry remains unmatched and, for many, still defines TV sex appeal.
Though the show was rich with comedic moments, like Morticia’s mere utterance of a French word sending Gomez into paroxysms of romantic gestures, the underlying passion was always evident. It was in the affectionate nicknames they used for each other, the fiery tangos they danced, and the intimate, whispered conversations they shared. This was a family deeply devoted to one another, a sentiment as clear and bright as a full moon illuminating a cemetery.
The humor in “The Addams Family” was merely the silken thread of the web, beautifully spun and abundantly present. A brilliant cast, commendable special effects for its time, intelligent storylines, and the unforgettable musical scores by Vic Mizzy, all coalesced to create a truly exceptional television program. The next time you decide to watch an episode, try focusing on the love story that anchors the show. You might find yourself appreciating this classic sitcom on an even deeper and more meaningful level.
