Arrested Development Money In The Banana Stand
Arrested Development is an American television sitcom that aired from 2003 to 2006, created by Mitchell Hurwitz. It follows the lives of the wealthy but dysfunctional Bluth family, who live in Orange County, California, and whose patriarch, George Bluth Sr., is sent to prison for his shady business dealings. One of the most memorable and hilarious running jokes throughout the show is the money hidden in the banana stand, which becomes a central plot point and a recurring theme. In this article, we will delve into the significance of the Arrested Development money in the banana stand and explore its cultural impact.
What is Arrested Development?
For those who are unfamiliar with Arrested Development, the show is a satirical take on the dysfunctional family trope popular in American sitcoms. The Bluth family is made up of Michael Bluth, the eldest son who tries to hold the family together; his narcissistic mother, Lucille; his bumbling brother, Gob; and his sister, Lindsay, who is married to a clueless husband. The show also features a host of other eccentric characters, including the family's longtime attorney, Barry Zuckerkorn, and their loyal butler, Lupe.
The Story of the Banana Stand
In the show, the Bluth family owns and operates a frozen banana stand on the beach boardwalk. The business is started by George Sr. as a way to launder money from his illicit activities, and he stores his cash in the walls of the stand. After George Sr. is arrested, his son Michael takes over the business, but he is clueless about the money stash hidden in the walls. The running joke throughout the show is that anyone who mentions or threatens to destroy the banana stand is met with a stern warning from the family: "There's always money in the banana stand!"
The Significance of the Banana Stand
The banana stand quickly became one of the most iconic and recognizable symbols of Arrested Development. Fans were drawn to the show's quirky humor and clever writing, and the banana stand became a shorthand for the show's irreverent and self-aware style. The fact that it was also a plot device added to its appeal, and the running joke about the money hidden in the walls became a fan favorite.
The banana stand also spoke to the show's larger themes about family dysfunction and the corrupting influence of wealth. The Bluth family may have been wealthy, but their money was earned through unethical and illegal means. The banana stand was a physical manifestation of their dishonesty, and the fact that they were willing to go to great lengths to protect it showed just how far they were willing to go to maintain their illusion of respectability.
The Cultural Impact of Arrested Development
Arrested Development was not a ratings hit when it first aired, but it quickly developed a cult following and critical acclaim. The show's unique style and subversive humor inspired a new generation of television writers and helped pave the way for a wave of smart and irreverent comedies that followed, including The Office, Parks and Recreation, and 30 Rock.
The show was also credited with popularizing the binge-watching trend, as viewers began to discover its layers of jokes and hidden references that rewarded repeated viewings. The banana stand itself became a meme, with fans creating their own versions of the iconic sign and posting them on social media.
The Legacy of Arrested Development
Arrested Development may have been canceled after three seasons, but its legacy lives on. The show was revived by Netflix in 2013, and while the new seasons were not as well-received as the original run, they kept the beloved characters and humor alive. The banana stand even made a cameo appearance in the fourth season of the show, proving that it still held a special place in the hearts of fans.
Overall, the Arrested Development money in the banana stand is a testament to the show's clever writing, unique style, and enduring appeal. It remains one of the most iconic and memorable symbols of the show, and a reminder of the wacky and irreverent humor that has come to define Arrested Development in the cultural lexicon.