Gidget Goes Hawaiian (1961): Dir: Paul Wendkos / Cast: Deborah Walley, James Darren, Michael Callan, Vicki Trinkett, Carl Reiner: Sequel to Gidget has her and her family fly to Hawaii where her wild enthusiasm catches the attention of numerous guys. Director Paul Wendkos returns and despite formula storytelling it has a clever third act. Deborah Walley steps in for Sandra Dee as Gidget who decides to live it up as oppose to lie in depression. She broke up with Moondoggie when he agreed that it would be exciting for her to travel to Hawaii with her folks. She positions him for potential jealousy until a hilarious third act brings her to her senses. James Darren plays her boyfriend who is flown to Hawaii to rekindle their relationship only to find every guy drawn to her. It is obvious that they will reunite but the fun they have getting there. Michael Callan plays one of the guys hoping to go surfing with her. His role is obvious but handled with great care when factoring that he isn't a villain. Vicki Trickett plays Abby whose popularity descends to Gidget. This fuels her to scheme rumours that result in a surprisingly good natured punishment. Carl Reiner provides amusement as Gidget's good natured yet somewhat frustrated father. Pointless but enjoyable follow up with plenty of surfing action and beautiful locations that sees Gidget on the way to adolescence. Score: 7 / 10
Review of Gidget Goes Hawaiian
