You have to admit, it was a terrific idea on the part of producer Sherwood Schwartz to fly the Bradys out to Hawaii, this for a special 3 part opener for the 4th season. I also think the fourth season ruled because the kids had grown up more, were defining themselves and the stories around each of them were quite good.
Everything clicks, and no matter how many times you see it, it never gets old. Mike is assigned to work on some architectural plans in Hawaii -- so the gang makes it a mini vacation and that's when all the fun starts. There's a running gag with Bobby picking up a mini tiki, which starts spreading bad vibes to everybody who wears it.... but the best is yet to come. Some beautiful scenery and a salute to the fallen at Pearl Harbor, which was an excellent scene.
More over, would you believe the great Vincent Price would guest star? Price enters the picture in the second episode, playing a frustrated archaeologist who apparently lives in a cave and is waiting for his next big find? He's a show stopper and lets it ride. Price actually did other comedy episodes, working with the likes of Lucille Ball and Carol Burnett.
Adventure and mystery, and you can tell the gang is having a blast putting this all together. What makes any sitcom even better is the fact the cast is enjoying each other's company --and it shows. Additional kewpie points to Vincent Price, who you have to admit, is hammy and hilarious.
Ironically, prior to this episode, Price starred as the ABOMINABLE DR. PHIBES, which was a dark, dark comedy about revenge. He was his old self for that classic thriller. Look for Philipino actor Patrick Adiarte as David, sort of Greg, Peter and Bobby's host on the island. Patrick began his career as a child actor and appeared on several tv shows in the 70s, such as HAWAII FIVE O and MASH.
This is cool stuff, and brings back a lot of memories for all of us Brady Bunch addicts, then and now.
SEASON 4, EPISODES 1 thru 3 remastered color ABC/ Paramount dvd box set.