The Swiss Family Robinson

The Swiss Family Robinson is starting anew in the west Pacific. Their ship sinks and they are shipwrecked on a remote tropical island. It is Karl Robinson, his wife Lotte, and their sons, Fred and Ernie. They are joined by the captain's daughter Helga Wagner and whaler Jeremiah Worth who was stranded seven years earlier. They are invaded by pirates looking for a hidden treasure.

This is a TV movie which serves as a pilot to an ABC show. This has some action. For TV, it is relatively good. I remember watching a version of Swiss Family Robinson from this era, but I don't know which one. I don't think it's this one. At least, I don't recognize it. This was produced by Irwin Allen who earlier had created Lost in Space. I guess he wanted to circle back and finish off the material. I do like the production considering it's TV. The actors are fine although none of them are standouts. This is fine.

I still remember watching this fun version of the classic novel. In many ways, I enjoyed this one even more than the Disney version. Martin Milner, John Vernon, John Crawford and the cast do an admirable job---even with the limited budget! Cameron Mitchell was outstanding in his role !

The story is,of course, timeless. A family finds itself stranded on a deserted (?) island -- and is forced to adapt and overcome the harsh environment. Fans of Castaway, Lost, Robinson Crusoe, Lost in Space or Mysterious Island will find this genre film surprisingly effective.

It is a great family film, suitable for all ages !