Review: “King of the Hill” – “Pilot”
When “King of the Hill” first graced our screens in 1997, viewers were transported to the fictional suburban Texan world of Arlen, a place where propane and “propane accessories” were a way of life, and where the bond between a father and son was tested by the modern world. The pilot episode served as a brilliant introduction to the Hill family, setting the stage for the unique blend of humor and heart that would define the series for its 13-season run.
The episode begins with a day in the life of Hank Hill, a proud Texan, a hard worker, and a steadfast believer in the values he grew up with. The stakes might seem small to the casual viewer – a misdiagnosis of his son Bobby’s supposed “ADD” and a struggle to keep his job selling propane. Yet, by the end of the episode, it’s clear these stakes are monumental for Hank. It’s not just about selling gas or understanding his son, but preserving a way of life and values in the face of a changing world.
The character of Hank Hill, voiced by show co-creator Mike Judge, is masterfully brought to life. The voice acting, a blend of Judge’s own experiences and the natural cadence of a Texas drawl, feels authentic from the first word. Judge, who also gave us the disaffected teens Beavis and Butt-Head, takes a more mature, nuanced, yet equally satirical approach with “King of the Hill.”
The ensemble cast is introduced with efficiency, yet depth. From the naive optimism of Hank’s wife, Peggy, to the esoteric musings of his best friend, Dale Gribble, each character brings their own flavor to the world of Arlen. Their interactions around the fence in their alleyway, a recurring motif throughout the series, offers not only comedic gems but also reflections on masculinity, fatherhood, and American life.
The animation style is distinct. It lacks the frenetic energy of some other animated sitcoms of its time, opting instead for a more grounded, realistic look that mirrors the show’s often understated humor.
Behind the scenes, “King of the Hill” boasts a blend of talented writers and producers. Greg Daniels, known for his work on “The Office” and “Parks and Recreation,” co-developed the show with Mike Judge. Their collaboration would prove to be a fruitful one, as the series consistently delivered both laughs and genuine emotional moments. The show’s Texas setting was deeply influenced by Judge’s own upbringing in the Lone Star State, and the city of Arlen is said to be loosely based on real-life Richardson, Texas.
Another behind-the-scenes tidbit worth noting is the organic development of the characters. While Hank was always envisioned as the show’s anchor, characters like Boomhauer, whose fast-talking jargon became legendary, evolved organically. Initially, he was slated to be a more minor character, but his unique voice and perspective became an indispensable part of the show’s fabric.
The pilot of “King of the Hill” is more than just an episode; it’s a statement of intent. It promises viewers a look into American life that’s both critical and compassionate. The Hills aren’t just caricatures to be laughed at, but a family to be understood and empathized with. Their struggles are real, their joys and pains familiar to anyone who’s tried to navigate the complexities of modern life while staying true to their roots.
The first episode of “King of the Hill” is a masterclass in animated storytelling, blending humor, heart, and a keen observational eye to create a world that’s both uniquely Texan and universally human. The fact that the show continued to deliver on the promise of its pilot for over a decade is a testament to the talents of its creators, voice actors, and production team.
