Great writing on the part of Herbert Finn, who wrote a ton of material for Jackie Gleason, and this ties into this episode. Jackie was always trying to lose weight... sooo.... we have a story about the Skipper trying to lose 22 pounds!
The Skipper makes the promise that when they are all rescued, the first thing he's going to do is join the Navy. But in order to meet the requirements, he has to lose a LOT of weight. At the same time, skinny Gilligan has to gain weight to join the Navy. The scenes where the Skipper is starving himself are shear torture, and you feel sorry for him --while the scenes with Gilligan being fed sweets and treats by Ginger and Mary Ann are a must.
We also get to see Mary Ann show off her Daisy Dukes, which was kind of a fashion statement at the time. Many reviewers have said Mary Ann's short shorts was a plus for the fashion industry in the 60s, and quite a change in conservative dress codes for tv.
Interesting footnote; the Skipper claims he served in WWII. So he would have to be in his 40s now, a real stretch at that age to join the Navy in the first place.
There's also the side story that has the professor working on a phosphorescent material that will attract planes and ships to the island at night. The final scene with Gilligan painted to glow and rotating is Creative Writing 101, not to forget the clever wardrobe department.
Best of SEASON 1 EPISODE 32 remastered color, originally released in black and white.