A neat little episode for all us movie and tv buffs, nicely directed by Richard Whorf.
Without fail, there's always a story (every season) about matching widower Steve with an eligible lady, though Steve is all alone here, and wants to be alone. He heads to the hills to go camping, running into seniors Ed Begley and Irene Ryan, of all folks. The catch is they see a single guy and think he needs company? And as soon as possible. Just like that, they plan to hook him up with someone special? Kind of a nice thing to do, but what about the camping trip?
Jan Clayton (known for LASSIE) plays Fran whose in the right place at the wrong time? Or is it the right time? Too many questions. I have to agree too, not what you would call LOVE, AMERICAN STYLE, but you have to roll with it due to this special cast. Also you can't help but watch Fred MacMurray in these type of awkward situations and what happens next. Fred's expressions are priceless.
Definitely all eyes are on Irene Ryan, minus glasses and makeup, and her appearance may have lead to being cast on the BEVERLY HILLBILLIES, thanks to Richard Whorf, who soon would direct that show and make it a hit. She's complimented by veteran actor Ed Begley, playing Ed, in a role that was probably written for him. The show was lucky to get him due to his popularity both in movies and tv.
No notes, but likely filmed at Franklin Canyon Resevoir (the famous ANDY GRIFFITH lake), near Benedict Canyon. The lake is said to be the geographical center of Los Angeles, boasting 600 plush acres. Good trivia question.
Written by Jack Laird, who went onto produce NIGHT GALLERY and KOJAK.
No matter what, catch this for our favorite Granny. Interestingly, a few episodes back, Harriet MacGibbon guest starred (as a companion for Bub), and likewise, may have won the role of Mrs. Drysdale on the Beverly Hillbillies thanks to Whorf. He had a keen eye for talent.
SEASON 2 EPISODE 15 remastered dvd box set. According to Amazon, all 12 seasons are now on dvd in a single box set. Thanks much to CATCHY TV and METV for running every single episode, and there's a bunch.
