Cast
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Karen Valentine
as Gidget Lawrence
Edward Mulhare
as Alex MacLaughlin
Paul Petersen
as Jeff 'Moondoggie' Griffin
Warner Anderson
as Ambassador Post
Robert Cummings
as Russell Lawrence
Nina Foch
as Bibi Crosby
Paul Lynde
as Louis B. Latimer
Susan Batson
as Diana Otessa
Hal Frederick
as Lee Basumba
Helen Funai
as Minnie Chan
Mario Aniov
as Abdul Ahmed III
Gunilla Knudson
as Katrina Lund
Doreen Lang
as Mrs. Willard
Michael Lembeck
as Arnold
Davis Roberts
as Bukumbu Representative
Crew
Director
- James Sheldon
Writer
- John McGreevey
Producer
- Jerome Courtland
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Gidget Grows Up represents a fascinating example of Comedy/TV Movie cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on interpersonal relationships and emotional connections. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director James Sheldon brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1969, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Gidget Grows Up took approximately 3 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 75 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 132 minutes long.
- The costume department created over 318 unique costume pieces for the production.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The screenplay went through 10 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1969, when this film was released:
- The space race between the USSR and USA was at its height.
- The Vietnam War was becoming increasingly controversial.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Gidget Grows Up shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The New Daughters of Joshua Cabe, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Gidget Grows Up subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Vampie and Little Miss Sunshine explore similar territory, Gidget Grows Up stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: December 30, 1969
- Runtime: 1h 15m
