The castaways devise schemes to help Gilligan feel like a hero.
“How to Be a Hero”
By
Herbert Finn & Alan Dinehart
March 6, 1965
FADE IN:
EXT. LAGOON - DAY
A Headhunter paddles an outrigger through the lagoon and onto the lagoon beach. He steps out and surveys the area for threats and a spot to hide the outrigger. The headhunter has four skulls hanging from his belt. He picks up the outrigger and hides it in the foliage nearby.
After hiding the outrigger, he looks around and spots Gilligan approaching. The headhunter hides in the jungle.
EXT. JUNGLE - DAY
GILLIGAN, holding a butterfly net, crawls along the ground until he spots a
MONARCH BUTTERFLY
which sits motionless on foliage.
BACK TO SCENE
Gilligan strikes at the butterfly with his net but the butterfly flies away before the net falls. Gilligan looks in the net, but the butterfly has eluded him.
EXT. LAGOON BEACH - DAY
MARY ANN, dressed in a black one-piece swimming suit and a bathing cap, prepares to dive into the lagoon. She drapes her towel on a large tree nearby. Mary Ann dives into the water.
EXT. JUNGLE - DAY
GILLIGAN
sits quietly with the butterfly on his head. PULL BACK to Gilligan preparing to catch it with the butterfly net. He puts the net entirely over his head, trapping the butterfly inside the net.
GILLIGAN
Ah -- gotch ya! Now I'll add you to my collection if I can figure how to get us out.
EXT. LAGOON - DAY
Mary Ann flails and struggles in the water.
MARY ANN
Help! Help!
Mary Ann sinks beneath the surface of the lagoon.
EXT. JUNGLE - DAY
GILLIGAN
Somebody's yelling for help. It's Mary Ann!
Gilligan pulls the net off of his head. The butterfly escapes and flies away.
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
I'll catch you later.
EXT. LAGOON - DAY
Mary Ann bobs in the water.
MARY ANN
Somebody, help!
Gilligan stands on the lagoon store and calls out to Mary Ann.
GILLIGAN
Hold on! I'll save you, Mary Ann!
Gilligan dives into the water. He swims to Mary Ann.
MARY ANN
Help! Save me! Help! Help! Save me!
Gilligan reaches Mary Ann. Mary Ann clings to Gilligan.
GILLIGAN
Here, Mary Ann.
Mary Ann inadvertently pushes Gilligan down into the water.
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
Mary Ann!
They both go under the water and pop back up. Mary Ann screams. Mary Ann pushes Gilligan down.
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
Help!
Mary Ann pushes Gilligan under the water.
SKIPPER
appears out of the jungle and runs toward the water.
BACK TO SCENE
They both bob out of the water.
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
Help!
MARY ANN
Help!
Gilligan goes under the water.
GILLIGAN
Help!
SKIPPER
runs toward the water and throws himself into the lagoon.
SKIPPER
Hang on!
Skipper makes a big splash.
GILLIGAN
That's what I say, "Help, help"!
Skipper swims to them. Mary Ann puts her arm around Skipper.
SKIPPER
Calm down, Mary Ann!
EXT. LAGOON BEACH - DAY
Headhunter watches them from the shore.
EXT. LAGOON BEACH - DAY
SKIPPER (O.S.)
Come here, Gilligan!
EXT. LAGOON - DAY
Skipper slowly walks out of the lagoon, holding Gilligan under one arm and Mary Ann under the other. Gilligan coughs.
ZOOM TO
Headhunter watches them from the jungle edge.
FADE OUT.
END OF TEASER
ACT ONE
FADE IN:
EXT. GILLIGAN'S ISLAND - ESTABLISHING SHOT - DAY
EXT. CAMP - DAY
MR. HOWELL points a single-lens reflex camera with flash bulbs at Skipper. MRS. HOWELL stands nearby. Skipper poses with his arms folded across his chest. Mary Ann sits on the dining table. Gilligan stands next to the dining table on the side opposite side from Mary Ann.
MR HOWELL
Now, when I get this picture, I'm going to put it on the front page of every newspaper in my chain, with the caption: "Heroic rescue at sea." There we are, Skipper. Hold it!
Mr. Howell takes the shot and the FLASH BULB POPS. He ejects the flash bulb. Mrs. Howell walks over to Skipper, holding a piece of paper roughly the size of a check.
MRS HOWELL
Now take one of me presenting our hero with a check. It goes with the Howell medal for bravery.
SKIPPER
The Howell medal for bravery?
MARY ANN
You deserve it, Skipper.
Gilligan looks like he's uncomfortable with all the attention lavished on Skipper.
MR HOWELL
I've been saving this film for such a suitable occasion.
Mr. Howell raises the camera to take another picture.
MR HOWELL (cont'd)
There you are, Lovey, smile.
Mrs. Howell mugs for Mr. Howell's camera. The FLASH BULB POPS. Skipper blinks his eyes as if he were seeing spots.
MR HOWELL (cont'd)
There we are.
Mr. Howell tosses the spent flashbulb aside.
MR HOWELL (cont'd)
Now let's get one with Mary Ann.
Mr. Howell nudges Skipper toward the dining table where Mary Ann sits.
SKIPPER
Another picture, Mister Howell?
Mr. Howell replaces the flash bulb.
MR HOWELL
We newshawks get our nose in a story, let me tell you something, we're insatiable.
Skipper sits down next to Mary Ann. Mr. Howell lines up the camera shot.
MR HOWELL (cont'd)
Now, our hero and the little girl that he rescued.
Mary Ann and Skipper pose for the picture
MR HOWELL (cont'd)
There we are.
Mr. Howell shoos Gilligan out of his shot.
MR HOWELL (cont'd)
Gilligan, will you get out of the way, please?
GILLIGAN
Sure, Mister Howell.
Gilligan walks away from the dining table.
MR HOWELL
Now, will you show a little knee, please?
Skipper laughs uncomfortably and pulls his pant leg up. Mr. Howell lowers the camera.
MR HOWELL (cont'd)
Not you, Skipper. Mary Ann. Cheesecake.
Mary Ann tugs on the hem of her skirt and raises it slightly above her knee. Mary Ann and Skipper snuggle closely. Mr. Howell takes the shot and the FLASH BULB POPS. Mr. Howell turns around to face the jungle. Gilligan sits on a large boulder.
MR HOWELL (cont'd)
Just what I like, a leafy background.
Mr. Howell raises his camera, realizes Gilligan is in his shot, and shoos him.
MR HOWELL (cont'd)
Will you get out of there, my boy?
Gilligan stands and walks to the side. Skipper and Mary Ann walk over to the boulder. Mr. Howell directs them to the boulder.
MR HOWELL (cont'd)
Nice pose there.
Skipper sits on the boulder. Mary Ann sits on his lap.
MRS HOWELL
Isn't it exciting having a real hero on the island?
GILLIGAN
Yeah.
Skipper looks at the camera. Mary Ann kisses Skipper lightly on the cheek. The FLASH BULB POPS. Skipper blinks as if he's seeing spots. Mary Ann smiles broadly.
MRS HOWELL
Skipper will go down in history like John Paul Jones or Horatio Hornblower or Henry van Rootbaum.
GILLIGAN
Henry van Rootbaum?
MRS HOWELL
Yes. The little Dutch boy who held his finger in the dike and saved a whole city.
GILLIGAN
He held his finger in a dike and saved a whole city? Which one?
MRS HOWELL
I'm not quite sure, but I think it was this one.
Mrs. Howell raises her right hand and extends her pinky. Mr. Howell asks Skipper and Mary Ann to pose for another shot.
MR HOWELL
There you are, Skipper. Just one more. That's it. Hold it.
Mary Ann stretches out and gives a big wave. The FLASH BULB POPS. Skipper blinks. Mary Ann puts her arms around Skipper, her hero.
MRS HOWELL
He's handsome, isn't he?
GILLIGAN
You know, I swam out to save Mary Ann. I dove in and swam as fast as I could --
MRS HOWELL
Yes, Gilligan.
GILLIGAN
The water was real cold, but I jumped in, and I was swimming very hard.
PROFESSOR and GINGER emerge from the jungle path.
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
Hey, Professor, did you happen to see when I dove in the water -- to swim to Mary Ann? I swam very
fa --
PROFESSOR
No, I didn't, Gilligan. All I saw was the Skipper carrying you both out.
GINGER
You must be very proud to have such a brave skipper.
GILLIGAN
Yeah.
Mr. Howell crouches to line up another camera shot.
MR HOWELL
No. Get closer together. That's it. I like that composition.
Mrs. Howell sits next to Skipper. Mary Ann continues to sit on Skipper's lap.
MR HOWELL (cont'd)
It's gonna look so good in the paper.
The FLASH BULB POPS. Skipper blinks.
MR HOWELL (cont'd)
There's only one picture left in this roll and I want it to be a good one. Where's Gilligan?
GILLIGAN
You want me, Mister Howell? You want me in the picture?
Gilligan runs over to Mr. Howell.
MR HOWELL
No, no, no. I want you to take it, because I want to be in it. Get in the picture, Ginger.
Mr. Howell sits next to Mrs. Howell.
MR HOWELL (cont'd)
Ginger, you sit here,
(slaps his knee)
and, Professor, you in the back.
Ginger sits on Mr. Howell's lap. Professor stands behind them. Mr. Howell puts his arm around Ginger.
MR HOWELL (cont'd)
Makes nice composition. Everyone look at the Skipper.
Mrs. Howell glares at Mr. Howell.
GILLIGAN
Is everybody ready?
Mrs. Howell continues glaring at Mr. Howell. He notices her glare and frowns back. Gilligan raises the camera to take the shot. The FLASH BULB POPS. Skipper blinks.
MR HOWELL
Oh, that was very, very good.
Ginger gets up from Mr. Howell's lap. Mrs. Howell continues to look at Mr. Howell. Skipper shakes Mr. Howell's hand.
MR HOWELL (cont'd)
Yes, I'll see you on the front page --
SKIPPER
Oh, thank you, Mister Howell.
Skipper shakes Ginger's hand.
SKIPPER (cont'd)
Ginger.
MR HOWELL
You were marvelous, too.
Gilligan finds no joy in Skipper's heroism and walks away.
DISSOLVE TO:
INT. HOWELLS HUT - DAY
MRS. HOWELL
stands with pencil in one hand and notepad in the other.
MRS HOWELL
Now, I'm going to give you a list of words. I want you to say the first thing that comes to your mind when I say them.
Mrs. Howell sits down. PULL BACK to reveal Gilligan laying on a chaise lounge chair.
MRS HOWELL (cont'd)
Ready?
Gilligan grunts in the affirmative.
MRS HOWELL (cont'd)
Marshmallow.
GILLIGAN
Ouch.
MRS HOWELL
Sunset.
GILLIGAN
Ouch!
MRS HOWELL
Tree.
GILLIGAN
Ouch!
MRS HOWELL
Really, Gilligan. I can't psychoanalyze you if all you can say is "ouch."
GILLIGAN
I don't know, Missus Howell. Maybe it's because I'm sitting on this
(pulls out flattened hat)
and this.
Gilligan pulls out a bird feather quill. Mrs. Howell rolls her eyes.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. JUNGLE PUTTING GREEN - DAY
Mr. Howell puts as Mrs. Howell walks up carrying a parasol. Skipper holds a golf bag. Mr. Howell misses his put.
MRS HOWELL
Oh, there you are, Thurston.
MR HOWELL
Please, Lovey, not while I'm putting.
MRS HOWELL
I thought you'd want to hear about Gilligan.
SKIPPER
We do. What seems to be wrong with my little buddy?
Mrs. Howell points at Skipper.
MRS HOWELL
You.
SKIPPER
Me?
MRS HOWELL
Yes, you. In his subconscious mind, he envies you. He wants to be like you.
MR HOWELL
Well, I must say that seems strange.
SKIPPER
What seems strange about it?
MR HOWELL
Well, I can -- I mean, envying me, but --
SKIPPER
What's wrong with envying me? After all, I am a hero.
MRS HOWELL
That's really Gilligan's problem. You're a hero, and he's not. That makes him feel small and insignificant. It gives him a sense of inferiority. Oh, it's a very simple neurosis, somewhat like an inferiority complex.
MR HOWELL
Inferiority complex? Heavens! I hope it isn't catching.
SKIPPER
Missus Howell, what can we do to cure this?
MRS HOWELL
Well, uh, Gilligan needs recognition. Something for his ego, I mean.
SKIPPER
Oh, I see. He wants to be a hero, huh? Well, I know just the guy who can arrange it.
MR HOWELL
Who?
SKIPPER
That little old hero maker, me.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. FALLEN TREE - DAY
Skipper and Ginger walk from the jungle path to a sandy clearing. A large fallen tree sits on the sand.
SKIPPER
Just a little further, Ginger.
They walk up to the fallen tree.
SKIPPER (cont'd)
Here we are. Now, what do you see?
GINGER
Well, it looks like a fallen log to me.
SKIPPER
Exactly, but it's the answer to Gilligan's problems. Gonna make a hero out of him. Watch.
Skipper lies down on the sand and slips his legs under the tree so it looks like the tree fell on him.
GINGER
Be careful, Skipper.
SKIPPER
Oh, don't worry. I know exactly what I'm doing.
Skipper covers the space between the tree and his legs with sand.
SKIPPER (cont'd)
Now, here's the plan: I'm gonna be trapped under this tree, and Gilligan's gonna save me, get it?
GINGER
Oh, yeah. Well, what am I supposed to do?
SKIPPER
Well, I want you to run back and get Gilligan. Now, I'm trapped under here, and I'll lie here and moan and groan.
Skipper lies back with his arm against his forehead and moans and groans.
SKIPPER (cont'd)
How does that sound?
GINGER
You gotta project a little more, from the diaphragm, like this.
Ginger groans from her diaphragm. Skipper tries to emulate her. He presses on his diaphragm while he moans and groans. Skipper looks to Ginger. Ginger more strongly projects her moans from the diaphragm. Skipper mimics Ginger.
SKIPPER
How do you like that?
GINGER
Richard Burton's got nothing to worry about. You keep practicing. I'll go get Gilligan.
Ginger turns and walks toward the jungle path.
GINGER (cont'd)
Help! Help!
ANGLE FROM SKIPPER'S FEET
Skipper practices his moans from the diaphragm. Behind him in the jungle, the headhunter appears.
HEADHUNTER
carries a large blade.
INT. BOYS HUT - DAY
Gilligan rests in his hammock.
GINGER (O.S.)
Gilligan, help! The Skipper needs you!
Gilligan sits up.
GILLIGAN
Help! Somebody help the Skipper.
Gilligan tumbles out of his bunk into the lower bunk, and then onto the ground.
EXT. CAMP - DAY
Mary Ann pedals the oil drum washing machine. Ginger runs past the clothes line and oil barrel washing machine to Mary Ann.
MARY ANN
What's the matter?
Ginger stops.
GINGER
Oh, it's nothing. It's just for Gilligan.
Ginger runs past her to the boys hut door.
GINGER (cont'd)
Gilligan, help! The Skipper needs you!
Gilligan opens the door and rushes to Ginger.
GILLIGAN
Here I am. What's the matter?
GINGER
Gilligan, the most terrible thing has happened to the Skipper. A tree fell on him. You've got to help and save his life.
GILLIGAN
Oh, I've gotta save his life.
Gilligan runs a few steps away from the clothesline, stops, and returns to Ginger.
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
Only one thing. Which way?
GINGER
Down the end of the path.
Ginger points in the direction of the clothesline.
GILLIGAN
Okay. Follow me! Follow me!
Gilligan runs into Mary Ann's clothesline, which is strung between the hut and a bamboo pole next to the washing machine. The clothesline stretches like a bungee cord and recoils.
Gilligan tumbles to the ground at Ginger's feet. Gilligan rises to his knees. Gilligan puts his hand on his neck. Gilligan stands.
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
(hoarse)
Maybe I better follow you.
Ginger hikes her dress up, and runs under the clothesline. Still holding his neck, Gilligan follows her. Mary Ann continues to pedal the washing machine.
EXT. FALLEN TREE - DAY
Skipper moans and groans from the diaphragm.
EXT. JUNGLE PATH - DAY
GILLIGAN
Here I come, Skipper.
EXT. FALLEN TREE - DAY
ANGLE FROM SKIPPER'S FEET
Headhunter crawls across the sand, raising the large blade.
GILLIGAN (O.S.)
Don't lose your head, Skipper!
Headhunter hears Gilligan calling to him and retreats back into the jungle.
NEW ANGLE
GILLIGAN
Here I am. Are you all right?
SKIPPER
Oh, thank heavens! Gilligan, you're the only one who can save me. Oh! Oh!
GINGER
Oh, Gilligan, get that heavy log off him. You've got to do something.
GILLIGAN
I don't know. It's quite a problem.
Gilligan sits on the fallen tree. Skipper groans in actual pain. Gilligan stands up.
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
Sorry, Skipper.
SKIPPER
Gilligan, I don't mean to tell you how to be a hero, but if I were you, I would think about Archimedes and his rule.
GILLIGAN
Of what and who?
SKIPPER
Archimedes. He's the man who said, "Give me a lever, and I will move the world."
GILLIGAN
Oh, yeah? Maybe we ought to get him.
SKIPPER
He's been dead for over a thousand years.
GILLIGAN
Yeah? Well, isn't it kind of late to be bringing him up?
Skipper moans and groans.
GINGER
Gilligan, you've got to do something. Look, he's suffering, the poor Skipper.
GILLIGAN
I don't know quite what to do.
Gilligan tries to lift the fallen tree by hand.
SKIPPER
Oh, Gilligan, if you were lying under here, and I was you, I'd look around and realize I could make some rope out of those vines, and then I'd put it around that tree and use it for leverage.
GILLIGAN
Skipper, I wish you wouldn't talk so much. It's very hard for me to think.
Gilligan notices the tree behind him.
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
Oh, I know. I'll take this vine, make it into a rope then I could throw it there, and tie it on the bottom, and I'd get some leverage.
SKIPPER
Now you're getting somewhere.
GILLIGAN
You see, Skipper? You give me a little time, I can figure out things.
SKIPPER
Aren't I lucky to have a hero like Gilligan come to rescue me?
GINGER
Oh, yes, isn't it wonderful? He's one in a million, Skipper. Just one in a million.
Mary Ann and Mrs. Howell emerge from the jungle path.
MARY ANN
Oh! What's going on here?
GINGER
Oh! The Skipper's pinned under the log and Gilligan's going to get him out.
MRS HOWELL
Oh, isn't it exciting? We're actually going to see a real hero in action.
MARY ANN
Oh, Gilligan, you're wonderful.
MRS HOWELL
Oh, this calls for a celebration. Let's go back to my hut and celebrate.
Mrs. Howell turns toward the jungle path. Gilligan wraps the vine over the tree branch.
SKIPPER
Wait a minute, Missus Howell! I don't want to be a party pooper, but our hero hasn't done anything yet.
Gilligan straddles the fallen tree. He lines up the vines to act as a pulley system.
MRS HOWELL
Oh, yes. Well, go ahead and do something. Don't just stand there. Save the man's life!
GILLIGAN
Yes, ma'am.
Straddling the fallen tree, Gilligan sits on it as he pulls on the vines. Gilligan struggles to pull the vine as he sits on the tree.
SKIPPER
Oh, Gilligan!
Gilligan barely stands, the vines move, and the fallen tree lifts up and falls back down on the Skipper's legs. Skipper cries out in pain. Gilligan moves to Skipper's side of the fallen tree. He pulls on the vine and the tree rises!
The women watch in eager anticipation.
Gilligan struggles, but manages to pull on the vines enough to lift the fallen tree a bit more.
GILLIGAN
Okay. Skipper, get ready now. Pull your legs out.
Gilligan slips and his legs slide under the tree. He releases the vine and the fallen tree pins all of their legs under it. The women exclaim in horror.
ANGLE ON SKIPPER AND GILLIGAN FROM THEIR FEET
SKIPPER
Nice going, Gilligan.
GILLIGAN
I'm sorry, Skipper. They're not making vines like they used to.
MARY ANN, MRS. HOWELL, AND GINGER
MARY ANN
What are we gonna do now?
MRS HOWELL
Let's get the Professor. He'll know what to do. He's a professor.
BACK TO SCENE
GINGER
Ooh, right. Now, you boys stay right where you are.
MARY ANN
Oh, don't go away. We'll be right back.
HEADHUNTER
emerges from the jungle behind Skipper and Gilligan. He gets on his hands and knees. And carries his large blade.
ANGLE FROM THEIR FEET
as the headhunter crawls toward the Skipper and Gilligan.
GILLIGAN
Cheer up, Skipper. The Professor will be here in a minute. He'll figure out something.
SKIPPER
I hope so. I've got a terrible headache. I feel like my head is gonna split.
GILLIGAN
You got any aspirin?
SKIPPER
No, I haven't got any aspirin.
The headhunter rolls back onto his knees and backswings to strike with his large blade.
GILLIGAN
Let's see. What else can you do for a headache?
MRS HOWELL (O.S.)
This way, Professor.
On hearing Mrs. Howell, the headhunter retreats back into the jungle. Mrs. Howell, Professor, Ginger, and Mary Ann walk down the jungle path toward Skipper and Gilligan.
MRS HOWELL
There they are. We were all set to hail the conquering hero, and now look at them.
PROFESSOR
Oh, I see. All right, we'll have you out in a jiffy. Come on girls, give me a hand here.
Professor, Ginger, and Mary Ann lift the fallen tree by using their arms and backs, not their legs.
MRS HOWELL
Go on, girls.
PROFESSOR, MARY ANN, AND GINGER
lift the log.
PROFESSOR
Ready? One, two, ...
SKIPPER AND GILLIGAN
PROFESSOR (O.S.)
... three.
BACK TO SCENE
They lift the fallen tree. While they hold it up, Gilligan and Skipper quickly remove their legs from under it.
SKIPPER
Thanks a lot, Professor.
MRS HOWELL
Oh, I knew the Professor would know what to do. Come on. Now we can have our party.
Mary Ann, Mrs. Howell, Professor, Ginger, and Skipper head up the jungle path. Gilligan trails behind.
GILLIGAN
GILLIGAN
All I needed was some help.
Gilligan looks over at the jungle.
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
Maybe I should've asked that headhunter over there for a hand.
HEADHUNTER
stands at the edge of the jungle, looking at Gilligan.
GILLIGAN
does a double-take.
BACK TO SCENE
Gilligan yells and runs away from the headhunter and up the jungle path.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT ONE
ACT TWO
FADE IN:
EXT. GILLIGAN'S ISLAND - ESTABLISHING SHOT - DAY
INT. BOYS HUT - DAY
Mrs. Howell stands next to Gilligan's bunk. Gilligan lies back in it. Mrs. Howell gently swings the hammock.
GILLIGAN
But I tell you I saw him, a great, big headhunter.
MRS HOWELL
Yes, yes, I know.
GILLIGAN
I know you don't believe me, but it's true. He had skulls tied around his waist, and a big spear, and on his side --
MRS HOWELL
Here, now you drink this.
Mrs. Howell holds Gilligan's head up so he can take a drink. She takes a coconut cup from the table and provides it to Gilligan. Mrs. Howell never releases the cup and Gilligan drinks from the cup.
MRS HOWELL (cont'd)
There.
Gilligan releases the cup and Mrs. Howell gently puts Gilligan's head down on the hammock. She places the coconut cup back on the table.
GILLIGAN
And you should've seen his eyes, and his face was painted and -- What was that stuff you just gave me?
MRS HOWELL
Well, that will make you sleep. It was a sedative.
GILLIGAN
Oh, thanks Missus Howell, but you're wasting your time. Those things don't work on me.
Gilligan sits up.
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
I remember once --
Gilligan passes out and lies back on the hammock. Mrs. Howell folds Gilligan's arms across his chest and pats his hands. Mrs. Howell heads for the door.
EXT. CAMP - DAY
Mrs. Howell exits the boys hut. Outside, Skipper and Mr. Howell wait for her near the dining table.
SKIPPER
How is he?
Mrs. Howell shushes Skipper.
MRS HOWELL
(sotto)
He's sleeping now. I've given him a sedative.
MR HOWELL
(sotto)
Imagine that. Now he's seeing headhunters. That boy is sicker than we thought.
MRS HOWELL
(sotto)
You're right, Thurston. It wasn't so bad when he was having an inferiority complex -- but now he's having delusions.
SKIPPER
My poor little buddy. Why, I'm gonna have to make a hero out of him before he goes off his rocker.
MR HOWELL
(sotto)
You make a hero out of him after you bungled the job this morning? This is a job that calls for tact, finesse, imagination --
MRS HOWELL
Thurston, that sounds like you.
MR HOWELL
(sotto)
You guessed it already, and I hadn't even gotten to "brilliant."
Mr. Howell presses his index finger to his lips in a "be quiet" motion.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. BOYS HUT - ESTABLISHING SHOT - NIGHT
Two coconut torches on poles burn on either side of the boys hut.
INT. BOYS HUT - NIGHT
Gilligan lies in his bunk. He's restless and tosses and turns.
MRS HOWELL (O.S.)
Help! Save me! Somebody save me!
Gilligan stirs and wonders if he was dreaming.
MRS HOWELL (O.S.) (cont'd)
Help!
Gilligan becomes fully awake.
GILLIGAN
That's Missus Howell.
Gilligan climbs out of his bunk and heads for the door.
EXT. BOYS HUT - NIGHT
Two coconut torches on poles burn on either side of the boys hut. Gilligan runs out of the boys hut, leaps onto and over the dining table and runs toward the Howells hut.
GILLIGAN
I'm coming, Missus Howell!
EXT. BOYS HUT - NIGHT
MR. HOWELL AND PROFESSOR
watch from around the corner of the hut. They exchange gleeful glances.
EXT. JUNGLE PATH - NIGHT
Gilligan runs past. Mary Ann, Skipper, and Ginger pop up from the dense foliage. Ginger turns and looks at Skipper.
INT./EXT. HOWELLS HUT - NIGHT
Mrs. Howell stands on a chaise lounge chair, calling for help. She holds a closed fan in her hand.
MRS HOWELL
Save me! Save me! Somebody save me!
Gilligan runs by the window.
EXT. HOWELLS HUT - NIGHT
Gilligan passes the door, stops, and reverses. He stops in front of the door.
MRS HOWELL (O.S.)
Help! Help!
Gilligan knocks on the hut door.
INT. HOWELLS HUT - NIGHT
Mrs. Howell stands on a chaise lounge chair, calling for help. She holds a closed fan in her hand.
MRS HOWELL
Help! Help!
(calmly)
Who is it?
EXT. HOWELLS HUT - NIGHT
Gilligan stands politely at the Howell's door.
GILLIGAN
It's me, Gilligan.
MRS HOWELL (O.S.)
(politely)
Do come in.
Gilligan scrambles to open the door and go inside.
INT. HOWELLS HUT - NIGHT
Mrs. Howell stands on a chaise lounge chair. She holds a fan in her hand. Gilligan opens the door.
MRS HOWELL
My hero.
Gilligan runs over to Mrs. Howell.
GILLIGAN
Missus Howell, what's the matter? What is it?
Mrs. Howell points to a spider on the ground with the fan.
MRS HOWELL
A tarantula. Save me.
Gilligan looks at the spider.
GILLIGAN
Missus Howell, that's not a tarantula. It's a plain old beach spider.
Gilligan bends over to pick it up.
MRS HOWELL
(faux panicked)
Don't argue! Save me!
Mrs. Howell glances sideways at Gilligan.
GILLIGAN
Be calm, Missus Howell. I'll take care of him.
Gilligan looks around the Howells hut for something to handle the spider. He sees a broom and walks over to it. Gilligan picks up the broom and brings it to the spider.
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
Missus Howell, maybe you'd better not look, huh?
Mrs. Howell opens the fan and hides her face behind it.
MRS. HOWELL
watches Gilligan over the top edge of her fan.
BACK TO SCENE
Gilligan lines up to hit the spider with the broom. He swings back in a practice swing to ensure his shot is lined up and extends the broom to the spider's position. Gilligan swings the broom back and hits his own head against the bamboo support pole in the middle of the room, knocking himself out.
PUSH IN
as Gilligan drops the broom and slumps down to the base of the pole. Gilligan closes his eyes and drops his head.
MRS. HOWELL
shakes her head in disbelief.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. GILLIGAN'S ISLAND - ESTABLISHING SHOT - DAY
EXT. CAMP - DAY
Mary Ann and Skipper sit at the dining table and brainstorm ideas to make Gilligan appear to be a hero.
MARY ANN
I've got it. I know how to make a hero out of Gilligan.
SKIPPER
How?
MARY ANN
See that cliff over there?
Mary Ann points.
MOUNTAINOUS ISLAND
MARY ANN (O.S.)
You climb to the top ...
BACK TO SCENE
MARY ANN
... and pretend you've broken your leg.
SKIPPER
Yeah?
MARY ANN
Well, and you yell for help.
SKIPPER
Yes?
MARY ANN
Well, Gilligan climbs to the top and he carries you down. And that way that --
Mrs. Howell approaches from the jungle.
SKIPPER
Wait a minute, Mary Ann. Gilligan climbs to the top of the cliff and carries me down then I would have a broken leg and a broken neck.
Mrs. Howell stands behind Mary Ann.
SKIPPER (cont'd)
Hello, Missus Howell.
(laughs gently)
Mary Ann just had a beautiful idea on how to help poor Gilligan -- only I have to die in the end.
MRS HOWELL
Aww, I'm afraid it's hopeless. After all, you know what they say: "You can't make a hero out of a sow's ear."
Skipper shushes her. From around the edge of the hut, Gilligan appears and walks toward them.
MARY ANN
We've gotta help him. We just can't give up.
SKIPPER
Exactly. We've got to find a way to help poor Gilligan.
Gilligan interrupts their conversation.
GILLIGAN
Did I hear somebody say "Gilligan"?
Mrs. Howell, Mary Ann, and Skipper are surprised to see Gilligan. Skipper stammers his answer.
SKIPPER
(stammering)
No, uh, wh -- not exactly. I -- I just said, "It's rained before, and it will again."
GILLIGAN
Oh.
SKIPPER
Gilligan, will you do me a favor?
Gilligan nods.
SKIPPER (cont'd)
Would you go pick some bananas?
GILLIGAN
What if I meet that headhunter?
SKIPPER
Will you stop bringing that up? How many times have I told you? There are no headhunters on these islands. There haven't been for three hundred years!
MRS HOWELL
Gilligan, I thought I convinced you that that headhunter was a figment of your imagination -- an optical illusion.
GILLIGAN
Yeah, I guess I was just seeing things.
Gilligan turns and walks toward the hut, where he picks up a woven basket appropriate for carrying bananas. Gilligan walks toward the jungle.
MRS HOWELL
I'm afraid Sigmund Freud wouldn't touch that boy with a ten-foot couch.
Gilligan stops walking, turns around, and walks back to the dining table.
GILLIGAN
Hey, Skipper?
SKIPPER
What is it?
GILLIGAN
Should I pick the yellow bananas or the red bananas? Because the yellow bananas are green.
SKIPPER
Then pick the red ones.
GILLIGAN
But the red ones are pink.
SKIPPER
I don't care if you pick red, white, and blue bananas. Just pick some bananas!
GILLIGAN
Okay. Skipper. Blue bananas?
Gilligan turns and walks toward the jungle.
SKIPPER
Hey. Gilligan just gave me a great idea.
MARY ANN
What?
SKIPPER
Well, let's not talk here. Let's go somewhere where we can be in private. Come on.
They get up from the dining table.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. JUNGLE - DAY
Skipper leads Mrs. Howell and Mary Ann through the jungle. They stop by a large plant.
MRS HOWELL
Skipper, are we going to discuss Gilligan's problems or are we going on safari?
SKIPPER
I had to find a place where we could talk without being overheard. Now here's my idea. We've got to make Gilligan do something heroic, right?
MARY ANN
(whispering)
Right.
SKIPPER
And he ought to do it in front of everyone.
Mrs. Howell nods.
SKIPPER (cont'd)
Now, Gilligan's got headhunters on the brain. Let's let him see a real headhunter.
MARY ANN
Missus Howell, I think you have another customer for your couch.
SKIPPER
Oh, you don't understand, Mary Ann. I'll dress up as a headhunter. I'll take you all prisoners, and Gilligan can come to your rescue.
MRS HOWELL
Ooh--it just might work.
MARY ANN
Can you stage it without Gilligan finding out?
SKIPPER
Don't you worry.
Skipper picks a banana from the large plant.
SKIPPER (cont'd)
He'll never find out.
The trio exit.
PUSH IN to reveal from the middle of the large plant, Gilligan stands as he holds a large bunch of bananas. He shakes his head and sighs.
FLIP TO:
EXT. JUNGLE PATH - DAY
Ginger and Mary Ann carry four bamboo poles through the jungle.
GINGER
I don't know. In my opinion, it's a silly idea for the Skipper to dress as a headhunter.
MARY ANN
Oh, maybe I didn't explain it right. Oh, there's the Skipper now. Ginger, why don't you ask him?
The women stop next to the headhunter standing with spear in hand.
GINGER
Skipper, I was just telling Mary Ann I think it's a silly idea for you to dress up like a headhunter. In the first place --
Headhunter grunts unintelligibly. Ginger looks at Mary Ann.
GINGER (cont'd)
Mary Ann, that's not the Skipper.
Headhunter moves toward them. They drop the BAMBOO POLES which fall to the ground with a CRASH.
EXT. JUNGLE - DAY
Professor sits on the sandy ground while leaning back on a boulder. He reads a book. Having heard the crash, Professor closes his book, gets up, dusts himself off, and walks further into the jungle to investigate.
FLIP TO:
EXT. JUNGLE - DAY
Mr. Howell and Mrs. Howell walk through the jungle.
MR HOWELL
Lovey, why does he have all the fun? I mean, why can't I be the headhunter?
MRS HOWELL
Well, after all, dear, it was his idea. You can be the headhunter next time.
Mr. Howell chuckles.
MR HOWELL
All right.
They hear MUTED AND GAGGED VOICES.
MRS HOWELL
Look at that.
Mrs. Howell points in the direction of Ginger, Mary Ann, and Professor.
EXT. JUNGLE CLEARING - DAY
Ginger, Mary Ann, and Professor stand gagged and tied to upright bamboo poles. Behind their gags, they call for help.
EXT. JUNGLE - DAY
Mr. Howell and Mrs. Howell think the scene is staged by Skipper.
MR HOWELL
That is rather overdoing it, isn't it?
Mrs. Howell laughs. The headhunter appears behind them. Mrs. Howell pokes Mr. Howell to draw his attention to the headhunter.
MRS HOWELL
What a getup.
Mr. Howell turns to the headhunter.
MR HOWELL
Oh, Captain, you bungled again. If you want to look like a headhunter, those feathers are ridiculous. You look like a showgirl.
Headhunter growls and lunges for the Howells.
MATCH CUT TO:
INT. BOYS HUT - DAY
Skipper, dressed as a headhunter, practices growling in front of a mirror. He growls into the mirror and is proud of his performance. He breaks the fourth wall.
SKIPPER/HEADHUNTER
Not bad, if I say so myself.
EXT. CAMP - DAY
Gilligan emerges from the jungle and heads toward the boys hut.
GILLIGAN
Skipper, I came to tell you something.
INT. BOYS HUT - DAY
Skipper/headhunter panics.
SKIPPER/HEADHUNTER
Gosh. I can't let Gilligan see me like this.
Skipper/headhunter looks for a place to hide. He sees a window and decides to crawl out of it.
GILLIGAN (O.S.)
I overheard ...
INT./EXT. BOYS HUT - DAY
Gilligan approaches the boys hut from the outside.
GILLIGAN
... you talking how you're gonna make me a hero, but it won't work.
(opens door and enters)
So you don't have to get all dressed up like a headhunter and --
Gilligan looks for Skipper.
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
Skipper? Skipper?
FLIP TO:
EXT. JUNGLE - DAY
Gilligan walks down the jungle path.
EXT. JUNGLE CLEARING - DAY
Professor, Mary Ann, and Ginger are gagged and bound to bamboo poles. Headhunter binds Mr. Howell and Mrs. Howell to other bamboo poles, but they are not gagged. A small campfire burns within the clearing.
MRS HOWELL
Oh, really, Thurston, what nerve. Why don't you give him a piece of your mind?
MR HOWELL
(stammers)
Well, um, uh --
MRS HOWELL
Well, go on, dear. He can't eat you.
MR HOWELL
Are you sure?
Headhunter tends to the fire. Satisfied, he grunts, picks up his spear, and stands up. He quickly walks out of the clearing into the jungle. Gilligan appears from the other edge of the jungle walks into the clearing. He sees everyone tied up. The gagged castaways try to speak to him.
GILLIGAN
Hi, Missus Howell. Hi, Mister Howell.
MR. HOWELL, MRS. HOWELL, AND GILLIGAN
MRS HOWELL
Gilligan, save us, save us! You've got to save our lives.
MR HOWELL
Gilligan, save us from the headhunter.
GILLIGAN
(incredulous)
Save you from the headhunter, huh?
MR HOWELL
Yes. He's gonna kill us.
GILLIGAN
(incredulous)
Oh, yeah? Well, don't worry about it, Mister Howell. It's like Missus Howell says.
REVERSE ANGLE ON GILLIGAN
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
He's just a figment of my imagination.
Headhunter appears from the jungle behind Gilligan.
MR. HOWELL AND GILLIGAN
MR HOWELL
Missus Howell is wrong. The headhunter's for real.
REVERSE ANGLE ON GILLIGAN AND HEADHUNTER
GILLIGAN
Oh, if there's a headhunter around here, I'd like to meet him.
MR. HOWELL AND GILLIGAN
MR HOWELL
Mister Headhunter, meet Mister Gilligan. Mister Gilligan, meet Mister Headhunter.
Gilligan turns around to see headhunter. He acts surprised by dropping his jaw.
GILLIGAN, MARY ANN, AND HEADHUNTER
GILLIGAN
What do you know, it is a headhunter!
MR. HOWELL AND GILLIGAN
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
(winks at headhunter)
Hiya, Skipper.
GILLIGAN, MARY ANN, AND HEADHUNTER
Headhunter grunts.
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
Ooh -- That sounds pretty convincing.
BACK TO SCENE
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
You want me to be a hero, huh? Well, take this.
GILLIGAN AND HEADHUNTER
Gilligan walks up to headhunter, grabs his nose, and twists it.
BACK TO SCENE
This infuriates headhunter, who growls at Gilligan, raises his spear, and charges at him. Gilligan easily dodges the spear. "Proud" of himself, Gilligan preens to Ginger and turns his back to headhunter.
Having missed Gilligan, headhunter turns toward Gilligan, growls, points the spear at Gilligan, and charges him.
Headhunter thrusts the spear into Gilligan. Gilligan arches his back. It looks like Headhunter gored Gilligan with the spear!
MR. HOWELL AND MRS. HOWELL
MR HOWELL
Oh!
Mrs. Howell closes her eyes.
MRS HOWELL
Eek!
MARY ANN
looks fearful at Gilligan being gored.
HEADHUNTER, MARY ANN, AND GILLIGAN
Gilligan groans and moans.
HEADHUNTER AND MRS. HOWELL
Headhunter looks at Gilligan as if he's never witnessed an overacted death scene.
MR. HOWELL AND MRS. HOWELL
Mrs. Howell's eyes are closed. Mr. Howell's mouth is agape.
HEADHUNTER, MARY ANN, AND GILLIGAN
Gilligan pants and turns around for face headhunter. Gilligan raises his left arm to show that the spear was, in fact, under his arm and that it was a ruse.
HEADHUNTER
enraged by the ruse, he pulls the large blade from his belt and charges at Gilligan.
HEADHUNTER, MARY ANN, AND GILLIGAN
Headhunter swings the blade and chops off the end of the spear. Gilligan looks at the remains of the spear and places it vertically in the sand.
BACK TO SCENE
Gilligan walks casually over to the camp fire.
MRS HOWELL (cont'd)
Ooh -- I can't look. Who's winning now?
MR HOWELL
Well, Gilligan's doing all right, but I've got to bet on the headhunter.
GILLIGAN
Here's some more wood for your fire.
Gilligan drops the remains of the spear on the campfire.
Headhunter swings the large blade at Gilligan. Gilligan ducks and the headhunter misses. Headhunter swings his large blade toward Gilligan's knees and Gilligan jumps over his blade.
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
Ice cream soda.
GILLIGAN AND HEADHUNTER
Headhunter swings the large blade at Gilligan's head. Gilligan ducks.
GILLIGAN'S LEGS
Headhunter swings his large blade toward Gilligan's knees and Gilligan jumps over his blade.
GILLIGAN AND HEADHUNTER
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
Ice-cold punch.
PROFESSOR AND HEADHUNTER
Headhunter swings the large blade at Gilligan's knees.
GILLIGAN'S LEGS
Headhunter swings his large blade toward Gilligan's knees and Gilligan jumps over his blade.
GILLIGAN AND HEADHUNTER
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
That's the name of your honeybunch.
Headhunter growls at Gilligan.
BACK TO SCENE
Gilligan runs from headhunter. Headhunter gives chase.
EXT. JUNGLE TREE - DAY
Gilligan runs to a small tree at the edge of the clearing and rests against it, taunting headhunter.
Headhunter catches up with him, and swings the large blade which sticks in the bark of the tree.
Headhunter grunts and struggles to remove the large blade from the tree. Gilligan raises his hand to stop headhunter. Headhunter releases the large blade handle. Gilligan grabs the handle of the large blade and works it back and forth to release it from the tree bark.
GILLIGAN
You know, if they ever give out Oscars for headhunters you're a cinch to get one.
Gilligan hands the large blade to headhunter. Headhunter growls angrily. Gilligan hides behind the small tree.
HEADHUNTER
scowls and growls at Gilligan.
GILLIGAN
taunts headhunter.
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
Okay, Skipper, make her good.
HEADHUNTER
growls loudly at Gilligan
BACK TO SCENE
Headhunter swings back, and strikes the large blade into the fork of the tree. The tree splits completely in half, down to the root. Headhunter's large blade sticks in the tree. Gilligan uses his opportunity to toy with headhunter some more. Gilligan claps and runs from the small tree past headhunter.
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
Make way! In and out the window! Follow me!
Headhunter works his blade free and chases after Gilligan.
EXT. JUNGLE CLEARING - DAY
Gilligan runs in a serpentine pattern around the other five castaways bound at the bamboo poles. Headhunter follows him. Gilligan runs between Ginger and Mary Ann and then between Mary Ann and Professor. He runs completely around Professor and then between Professor and Mrs. Howell.
GILLIGAN, MR. HOWELL, MRS. HOWELL, AND HEADHUNTER
Gilligan runs from Mrs. Howell to Mr. Howell and completely runs around Mr. Howell. Gilligan makes a second lap around Mr. Howell, but headhunter runs between Professor and Mary Ann.
BACK TO SCENE
Gilligan follows him. When headhunter realizes Gilligan is behind him, he turns around. As does Gilligan. Gilligan runs to the other side of the clearing. Headhunter chases closely behind.
Gilligan nearly slips and falls on the sand, but he rights himself. Headhunter runs directly into a palm tree at the edge of the clearing and knocks it over.
GILLIGAN
Skipper, look out for the -- tree, Skipper.
Gilligan looks to see if headhunter is okay.
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
Are you all right, Skipper?
Gilligan hears nothing from headhunter. He walks to the center of the clearing.
MR HOWELL
You won.
GILLIGAN
How am I doing, huh?
MR HOWELL
Great.
Skipper/headhunter runs out of the jungle and growls at Gilligan.
GILLIGAN
Skipper, how'd you change your costume so fast?
SKIPPER
Huh?
GILLIGAN
I liked your other outfit better.
SKIPPER/HEADHUNTER
What other outfit?
GILLIGAN
That one.
Gilligan points to the edge of the clearing. He sees:
HEADHUNTER
has recovered and has his large blade drawn.
BACK TO SCENE
Gilligan looks startled with the realization that he's been toying with a real headhunter. Gilligan flees the clearing.
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
Run, Skipper. Run, run, run, run!
Headhunter positions himself opposite Skipper.
GILLIGAN
turns around and runs back to Skipper and headhunter.
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
I'll save you, Skipper!
BACK TO SCENE
Gilligan runs toward headhunter.
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
I'll save you, Skipper!
SKIPPER/HEADHUNTER AND GILLIGAN
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
I'll --
He trips on Skipper/headhunter's leg as he runs past and tumbles into headhunter.
BACK TO SCENE
Gilligan momentum pushes headhunter back and headhunter tumbles behind-first onto the campfire. Gilligan falls onto his back.
HEADHUNTER
bounces up and down on the campfire as the fire sears his behind.
BACK TO SCENE
Headhunter gets up. The back of his skirt is burned. Skipper/headhunter stammers as he fears headhunter still wants a fight. But headhunter jumps over Gilligan and flees from the clearing into the jungle. Smoke billows from his behind.
EXT. LAGOON BEACH - DAY
Headhunter emerges from the jungle and runs toward the lagoon. A smoke trails behind him.
REVERSE ANGLE
Headhunter runs into the lagoon and cools his hind quarters in the water. He swims away.
EXT. JUNGLE CLEARING - DAY
The castaways congratulate Gilligan.
SKIPPER/HEADHUNTER
Little buddy, that's the bravest thing I ever saw anybody ever do!
GILLIGAN
Yeah, it was kind of brave, wasn't it?
MARY ANN
Gilligan, you were wonderful!
GINGER
Gilligan, that was wonderful.
GILLIGAN
But Skipper, promise me one thing?
SKIPPER/HEADHUNTER
Anything. What is it, little buddy?
GILLIGAN
If I ever try to do something like that again, please stop me.
Gilligan walks away, stepping on Skipper/headhunter's foot. Skipper cries out in pain.
FADE OUT.
END OF ACT TWO
TAG
FADE IN:
EXT. GILLIGAN'S ISLAND - ESTABLISHING SHOT - DAY
EXT. BOYS HUT - DAY
GILLIGAN
stands and speaks to the castaways. An American flag made from local materials hangs behind him.
GILLIGAN
And I sure am proud that I did something brave.
PULL BACK
to reveal the other castaways sit at the dining table outside the hut.
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
Of course it's no surprise to me. I mean, heroes run in my family. Uh, I don't mean they run. I mean they -- Well, take my Uncle Ramsey for instance. He was in the first World War with the "Lost Battalion."
(pause)
He was the guide.
MR HOWELL
rests his head on his upright arm. He glances at Skipper in a pleading way.
GILLIGAN (O.S.)
So, I guess being brave just kind of comes natural.
SKIPPER
winks at Mr. Howell.
BACK TO SCENE
Skipper rises from his seat and walks over to Gilligan.
GILLIGAN
And in conclusion, I would like to say --
Skipper taps Gilligan on the shoulder. Skipper holds one of the skulls from headhunter's belt. Gilligan turns and sees the skull.
GILLIGAN (cont'd)
Help!
Gilligan falls backward to the ground. The castaways laugh.
DISSOLVE TO:
EXT. GILLIGAN'S ISLAND - ESTABLISHING SHOT - DAY
FADE OUT.
THE END