I didn’t know Samurai Jack mixed with Dean Martin (Songs: That’s Amore, Ain’t That a Kick in the Head? Movies/Television: At War with the Army, The Dean Martin Show) is something I wanted but now it’s here. I promise you, in spite of watching this episode multiple times for this review, the entrance of one of Martin’s signature songs, Everybody Loves Somebody, always catches me off guard because of how unbelievable it is that television executives would allow it when most people today likely have no idea who Dean Martin is and have never heard his incredible music (sadly). Unless of course you have a family that is fiercely proud of its cultural roots (Italian-American in my case, as Dean Martin’s real name is Dino Paul Crocetti) and makes sure to introduce you to classic music at an early age. (Billy Joel, Frank Sinatra, and Bon Jovi are among the constant musical presences in my family.) What a world we live in.
The latest episode of Samurai Jack is essentially a vehicle to set up a romance. I’m not spoiling anything. It’s quite clear from the beginning. Jack (Phil LaMarr) and Ashi (Tara Strong) are continuing their journey and stop in an Arabian-esque town to eat. Eventually they find transport via giant alien camel and romantic jokes/shenanigans ensue. With an obviously evil right from the get-go ninja cat army here to provide action scenes. The action has Jack and Ashi constantly finding themselves in awkward situations in the midst of the fighting.
Eventually Jack and Ashi abandon the camel and continue through the desert on foot. Their affection for each other continues to grow. As a sandstorm encompasses them, they take shelter in a crashed alien ship. Soon they find a monster chasing them and they must prepare to fight.
This episode serves as a means to an end for the relationship between Jack and Ashi. It is not bad by any means, I assure you. The action is still great. The character moments and romantic attraction between Jack and Ash are well earned by the show up to now, making this feel natural and meaningful rather than forced.
The episode is memorable for me because of the surprise Dean Martin song. I think that was the point though, otherwise this would be something people would just regard as the “obligatory romantic drama episode”. Regardless, this episode is a fun ride with the signature Samurai Jack humor we know and love, with a little adult humor sprinkled in. The King of Cool’s signature Everybody Loves Somebody only makes it more memorable!
Image from http://samuraijack.wikia.com
