Series writer Ruth Brooks Flippen wrote this story in reverse. Instead of Gidge staying out way too late, her dad is AWOL. Good writing, and some excellent acting on the part of Sally Field. 10 Stars.
Professor Lawrence hooks up with a nice lady at the beach, called Sally (played by Marian Collier). All is going well and swell until Gidge gets into the mix and thinks her dad might actually be the target of a pick pocket or card shark? After all, who would date her dad???
Whatever clever, Professor Lawrence is having fun, but Gidge ain't having a good day -- or night. Without too much surprise, her dad stays out past midnight and PRESS the panic button. Could this stranger have mugged her dad and left him in an alley somewhere????
Gidge calls the cops!
Look for comedian Harvey Korman, in an early role, playing a deadpan cop who follows the professor home and promptly gives him a ticket! Not a good night for Mr. Lawrence and looks like Gidge is going to get the "lecture of lectures."
Sally Field really turns on the tears here and proves she is one heck of an actress. Her scenes with her dad are genuine. Marian Collier also makes a good companion for Gidget's dad. She was a popular tv actress, appearing regularly on MR. NOVACK, also PERRY MASON and in later years turned up in various roles in the LETHAL WEAPON movie series.
One interesting note; Gidge and her dad are driving home from the beach (looks like the Pacific Coast Highway), but don't they live near the beach? Some nice shots of Professor Lawrence's yellow Pontiac GTO. A classic. The crew had to get a shot of that car, which was new at the time.
Yes, there is a happy ending. From SEASON remastered color Columbia dvd box set. A super gift for fans.