December 6, 1962
Unknown
A Top 5 Episode! Simon is Out of his element! hide show
This is one of the most unique episodes in the entire series. Simply put, Simon takes a spoiled heiress, engaged to marry a close friend, and introduces her to the simple, more rugged things of life, on a multi-day walking trip through the rugged Spanish countryside. Not only is Simon out of his usual element of chic restaurants and nightclubs, he's literally out IN the elements for this entire episode.
This simple story works exceedingly well. Not only is there some wonderful travelogue footage folded into the story, but the utterly predictable transformation of socialite/heiress Belinda is still enjoyable to watch. So too is how the episode absolutely glories in stereotypes of Franco-led Spain in the early 1960s. Colorful peasants. Rugged rustic villages and countryside. Corrupt but friendly (and inept) police. About the only thing missing was a performance by flamenco dancers. Somebody should have called Jose Greco.
The only pity is that so few people will ever view this episode--or read this review.
GeorgeFergus
Editor
TheOldBill
christopher_007
albowlly
