This was actually the only episode where the castaways could have legitimately gotten off the island, and it all goes haywire. OMG. There are also shades, and I agree with the last few reviewers, of ANDY GRIFFITH and GUNSMOKE?
Well written fluff by comedy master Bruce Howard, who did many fun scripts for RED SKELTON, later writing for GOOD TIMES and the DUKES OF HAZZARD.
After witnessing the professor playing a mock murder scene with Ginger and Maryann (the guys have to do something to keep their sanity!), Gilligan reports it to the Skipper... and when all the dust settles, it does make good sense to have some extra authority around the island, just in case.
The skipper deputizes Gilligan, making him into another overzealous Barney, minus Andy Griffith.
In the meanwhile, shining rocks are discovered that could actually attract aircraft overhead --who just happen to be flying nearby?? NATURALLY, everybody is needed to place the heavy rocks in a pattern to be seen in the first place, but what to do when deputy Gilligan starts throwing the gang in jail one by one! Thus, a truly constructive way to FINALLY leave the island goes down the drain!
Soooo sad.
This was the only episode directed by Robert Scheerer, who has some fun with the cast, especially when they're packed in their cave jail cell. Mrs. Howell is the most outraged, because after all, she's a Howell! Scheerer would later do many top episodes for LOVE BOAT.
Another family show that can't be missed, and we also get to see the famous blue shorts and top Maryann wears that would forever identify her character, also used for the Maryann doll series. You have to admit, a doll collection, especially Ginger and Maryann dolls, were a clever way to attract even more fans to the show in the 60s.
From SEASON 3 EPISODE 15 remastered color dvd box set.