Cast
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Bob Denver
as Gilligan
Alan Hale Jr.
as Skipper Jonas Grumby
Jim Backus
as Thurston Howell III
Natalie Schafer
as Lovey Wentworth Howell
Judith Baldwin
as Ginger Grant
Russell Johnson
as Professor Roy Hinkley, Jr.
Dawn Wells
as Mary Ann Summers
Vincent Schiavelli
as Dimitri
Art LaFleur
as Ivan
Norman Bartold
as Producer
Barbara Mallory
as Cindy Smith
June Whitley Taylor
as Miss Ainsworth
Martin Rudy
as Dean
Mary Gregory
as Mrs. Devonshire
Glenn Robards
as Mr. Devonshire
Crew
Director
- Leslie H. Martinson
Writer
- David P. Harmon
- Elroy Schwartz
- Al Schwartz
- Sherwood Schwartz
Producer
- Lloyd J. Schwartz
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
Rescue from Gilligan's Island represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Adventure/TV Movie cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.
Director Leslie H. Martinson 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 1978, 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 Rescue from Gilligan's Island took approximately 27 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 95 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 126 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 5 weeks before filming began.
- The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 11 months to complete.
Historical Context
- In 1978, when this film was released:
- Environmental awareness was growing as a social concern.
- The Watergate scandal changed public perception of political institutions.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Rescue from Gilligan's Island shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Mutiny on the Bounty, which focuses more on action than character development, Rescue from Gilligan's Island subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like The Secret of Roan Inish and Dance with the Jackals 6 explore similar territory, Rescue from Gilligan's Island stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: October 14, 1978
- Runtime: 1h 35m
Where to Watch
