

Movie spotlight
Gidget Grows Up
After spending the last two years in Europe as an exchange student, Gidget returns home to California only to discover that things have changed. The letters she had been writing to her beloved "Moondoggie" to try to make him jealous have had the wrong effect. Disillusioned with love, and after hearing a speech on television, she decides to make a real difference in the world by going to New York to become a youth worker at the United Nations. While there she has a proposal of marriage from an extremely wealthy Arabian sheik, but instead she falls for a handsome but older Australian diplomat.
Insights
Plot Summary
Gidget, now a college student, grapples with newfound independence and the complexities of adulthood. She faces challenges in her studies, her relationships, and her personal growth as she navigates the transition from teenager to young woman. The story follows her journey of self-discovery as she learns to balance her dreams with the realities of life.
Critical Reception
As a made-for-television movie, 'Gidget Grows Up' received a mixed to positive reception, largely appealing to its existing fanbase. While it successfully captured the spirit of the Gidget character for a new phase of her life, some critics noted it was a more mature and less carefree iteration than its predecessors. The film was praised for its relatable themes of growing up and its earnest performances, particularly from Karen Valentine, who stepped into the iconic role.
What Reviewers Say
A charming continuation of the Gidget saga into young adulthood.
Karen Valentine capably takes on the iconic role, bringing a new maturity to Gidget.
The film tackles relatable themes of college life and independence with a light touch.
Google audience: Information on specific Google user reviews for this particular television movie is not readily available.
Fun Fact
This was one of the first made-for-television movies produced by Screen Gems, paving the way for many future TV movies.
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