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While this documentary about the behind-the-scenes machinations that occurred during the production of Gilligan's Island will have its strongest appeal for fans of the TV series, even viewers with a passing interest will find some entertainment in this surprisingly deluxe DVD presentation. Based largely on the recollections of executive producer and original cast member Dawn Wells (Mary Ann), with contributions from Bob Denver (Gilligan) and Russell Johnson (the Professor), the documentary explores the many conflicts endured by the show's cast and production staff before and during the show's network run. None of the gossip is particularly damning (no fistfights or secret trysts between cast members), so viewers looking for Behind the Music-type dirt may be somewhat disappointed. But for classic TV fans and Gilligan aficionados, Surviving Gilligan's Island is a pleasant and well-produced diversion. --Paul Gaita

Set Contains:

The supplemental features are the real reason to check out this full-screen disc. The most informative of the lot is the episode synopsis, which provides plot synopses, airdates, and cast listings for all 98 episodes from the series' three seasons. The Island Recipes--24 in total--are also surprisingly elaborate. Less intriguing are the outtakes and behind-the-scenes movies (shot by Dawn Wells), though they should offer interest for Gilligan completists. The extras are rounded out by a fairly tough trivia game, which offers more home movie footage to those who complete the challenge. The bright and active animated menus feature a wealth of pop-up cartoons and trivia tidbits ("Lagoon Fun Facts"). --Paul Gaita

• Is Discontinued By Manufacturer ‏ : ‎ No
• MPAA rating ‏ : ‎ Unrated (Not Rated)
• Package Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 7.1 x 5.42 x 0.58 inches; 2.93 ounces
• Media Format ‏ : ‎ NTSC, Full Screen, Color, Closed-captioned, Dolby
• Release date ‏ : ‎ September 24, 2002
• Actors ‏ : ‎ Buktenica, Ray, Dalton, Kristen, Davis, Terry, Denver, Bob, Harris, Samantha
• Subtitles: ‏ : ‎ Spanish
• Language ‏ : ‎ English (Dolby Digital 2.0 Surround)
• Studio ‏ : ‎ Artisan