McHale's Navy (TV Series) Jolly Wally (1963) User Reviews

Jolly Wally is Jolly Good!

[jstorm-52594 · 8/10 · 12 December 2023]

When asked about reviving McHale's Navy, Ernest Borgnine's reply was simply, "That's a good idea, but where in the world are you going to find another Joe Flynn?"

Flynn's unique talents are on full display in this title. His energy, his timing and pacing are all spot on and that is a unique talent indeed. After discovering that Parker is an old buddy of a famous war correspondent, Binghamton is talked into adopting a persona, hoping that it will be a shortcut to fame. The ensuing shenanigans are predictably chaotic and hilarious.

Watching Binghamton reacting spontaneously to various happenings and then remembering that he is supposed to be "jolly" is absolutely hysterical. Flynn turned in a number of memorable performances during this shows run, but this might be his best.

Whether you are a fan of the show or not, this entry is among the best episodes and will satisfy most any audience.

Laughed out loud at this episode.

[kfo9494 · 10/10 · 29 October 2014]

I know that most people may find this episode to be silly but after watching it put a nice smile on my face. I actually enjoyed the show because that is exactly what a comedy sitcom is suppose to do, make you feel better.

This show starts off with a newspaper corespondent, Whit Barrett, coming to the island to write a story about the base. Binghamton is hoping that it is about him since most stories about Commanders end up with a promotion. And with Ensign Parker knowing Mr Barrett, Binghamton feels sure that he is next in line for promotion.

Parker comes up with a nick-name for Binghamton in the form of 'Jolly Wally'. He tells Binghamton that the name will catch on and everyone will remember the brave Commander that laughed in the face of danger. But it does not turn out as expected. The next thing we know is that Com-fleet is sending a doctor down to the base to evaluate the mental capacity of Binghamton.

This was a humorous episode. Maybe it was me but each time I heard the name 'Jolly Wally' I laughed. Add in some of the pitfalls that happened during the show and you have a show worthy of a great comedy. Joe Flynn was excellent as he really tried to make his new nick-name stick but afterwards was less than enthusiastic. One of the few episodes in the series that actually made me laugh out loud. Good watch.