It's no "SURPRISE! SURPRISE! SURPRISE!" that this Mayberry spinoff, Gomer Pyle U.S.M.C.: The Third Season", is as funny today as it was back in 1966. The bland military background contrasts the benevolent Gomer Pyle (Jim Nabors) and the manipulating Sgt. Vince Carter (Frank Sutton) creating a perfect stage for the honest candor of the naive private to outrank his malicious, overbearing sergeant in homespun truth and honesty.

"Loves Old Sweet Song," "Lou-Ann Poovie Sings Again!" and "Lou-Ann Poovie Sings No More" are delightful episodes that show the evolving relationship between Pyle and the captivating, non-talented songstress, Ms. Poovie (Elizabeth MacRae). Several episodes display the genius of Nabor's voice especially in "Sing A Song of Papa" where he is literally transformed from a bungling shy soldier to the grandeur of a 5-star vocalist as the audience is enthralled by his version of "Oh My Papa."

Gomer Pyle U.S.M.C. was a spinoff of the ever-popular The Andy Griffith Show where Gomer was a service attendant at a Mayberry, N.C. gas station. In that series, Pyle informs sheriff Andy Taylor that he has enlisted in the Marines and Nabors skyrockets the show into public popularity. Supporting stars are Gomer's best friend, Duke (Ronnie Schell), Corporal Boyle (Roy Stuart), Sgt. Carter's assistant, and Sgt. Carter's girlfriend, Bunny Wilson ("Freaky Friday's" Barbara Harris).

Laughter abounds as this private weaves his humor through the plans of the conniving sergeant and shows that wisdom prevails in the sensitive spirit of truth. This DVD is definitely a "G" rating and recommended for the entire family without reserve. Try Gomer Pyle U.S.M.C.: The Third Season" to rediscover some of the good, old-fashioned hilarity and bring the family back together with laughter.