American Playhouse Season 6 Episode 15 Gal Young 'Un
- May 18, 1987
Gal Young 'Un is an episode from the sixth season of the American Playhouse television series. It tells the story of a young woman named Dorinda Oakley, also known as Gal Young 'Un, who lives alone in a remote area of Florida. The episode is based on a short story by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings, the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of The Yearling.
Dorinda is a self-sufficient woman who lives off the land, growing her own food and tending to her small farm. She is fiercely independent and takes great pride in her ability to survive on her own. Despite her isolated lifestyle, she is happy and content with her simple way of life.
When a wealthy businessman named Jeb Griswold sets his sights on Dorinda, she is initially resistant to his advances. However, Jeb is persistent and eventually wears down her defenses. Dorinda finds herself falling in love with him, despite their vastly different backgrounds and lifestyles.
Their relationship is complicated by the disapproval of Jeb's family and friends, who do not believe that Dorinda is a suitable match for him. They are particularly critical of her lack of education and refined manners, which they see as evidence of her lower social status. Dorinda is hurt by their insults and feels out of place in their world.
As Dorinda and Jeb's relationship deepens, she makes the decision to leave her isolated life and move to the city with him. However, the transition is difficult for her, and she struggles to adjust to her new surroundings. She feels like an outsider in Jeb's world, and their relationship begins to suffer as a result.
Despite the challenges they face, Dorinda and Jeb are determined to make their relationship work. They try to bridge the gap between their two worlds, and Dorinda makes an effort to fit in with Jeb's social circle. However, their efforts are complicated by a tragic event that threatens to tear them apart.
Gal Young 'Un is a poignant and beautifully told story about the complexities of love and the challenges of bridging cultural divides. It is a timeless tale that speaks to the human condition and the universal desire for connection and understanding. The episode features strong performances from its leads, who bring depth and nuance to their characters. The stunning Florida landscape serves as a backdrop for the story, adding to its immersive and atmospheric feel.
Overall, Gal Young 'Un is a must-watch episode for fans of American Playhouse and lovers of great storytelling. Its themes of love, identity, and belonging resonate deeply, and its characters are unforgettable. It is a powerful reminder of the beauty and complexity of the human experience, and an important contribution to the American cultural canon.