How can you miss with the likes of veteran director Jerry Hopper and comedy writer Ron Friedman, who really rolled up his sleeves for this one, a genuine labor of love. Friedman wrote a ton of classic episodes for all those sitcoms we gew up with, such as the ODD COUPLE, LOVE, AMERICAN STYLE, BEWITCHED... etc, etc, etc...
This truly classic tale, and so well acted, borrows a bit from the literary classics. It all starts out like Agatha Christie's TEN LITTLE INDIANS as Mrs. Howell, Ginger and Maryann disappear under very mysterious circumstances. At first, the professor believes that head hunters are in search of new brides --but could it also be some maniac on the loose?
It naturally all falls into Gilligan's lap who starts hearing voices???? --- and slowly begins to think and DREAM he is the one and only DR. JEKYLL AND MR. HYDE! OMG. OMG.
The subsequent dream sequence is excellent, Dawn Wells a standout playing a cockney charwoman out of MY FAIR LADY, the first witness to the horrible crimes! She is very good in this role.
The stern judge is played by Mr. Howell, who has some memorable dialogue, as usual. You must listen to his dramatic introduction, and everything else that goes along with it, Mr. Howell style.
In steps Ginger as the "surprise" witness, pointing the finger of guilt to Dr. Gilligan, who looks more like SHERLOCK HOLMES! And not to forget Mrs. Howell playing Mary Poppins? The professor, without surprise, plays a crusading barrister.
The scene stealer is the skipper with his handlebar moustache!
The more Ginger talks... the more Dr. Gilligan transforms into the frightening Dr. Jekyll. The makeup is fairly good, and Bob Denver is having fun here. A special nod to the fashion designer Madame Swee Lo, of Malaysian descent, quite popular in Hollywood in the 60s for her clothing line. It was GILLIGANS ISLAND, where she got to show off her many designs on a weekly basis, especailly Mrs. Howell's elite wardrobe.
Director Jerry Hopper hits a home run here, who directed seven episodes of the series, while also handling such dramatic shows as PERRY MASON and the FUGITIVE. By the way, veteran comedy writer Ron Friedman wrote over 600 tv episodes to his credit, which has to be some sort of record.
Recommened for fans of Oscar Wilde, Dame Agatha Christie, Mary Poppins and Gilligan!
SEASON 3 LUCKY EPISODE 13 remastered dvd box set in beautiful restored color.