Ep 11. The Day Off

Lassie is an American television series that follows a brave and heroic collie named Lassie, who helps people in trouble and solves mysteries in Rathmore, a fictional town in California. The show first aired on September 12, 1954, and has become a classic and beloved family entertainment ever since. Each episode is approximately 22 minutes long, and the show has nine seasons and a total of 591 episodes.

Season 1, Episode 11 of Lassie is named "The Day Off" and follows the adventures of Lassie and her human friends on a day of rest and relaxation. The episode first aired on November 28, 1954, and was directed by William Beaudine. The story opens with Jeff Miller, Lassie's owner, waking up to a beautiful day. He decides to take the day off from his chores and enjoy some time with Lassie and his friends. Jeff's mother, Ellen, is pleased that Jeff is taking a break and suggests that they all go for a picnic at the lake.

Jeff invites Porky and Boomer, two of his closest friends, to join them. Porky is Jeff's neighbor, and Boomer is a new friend who has just moved to the area. The boys are excited to explore the woods and have fun together. They pack a basket of sandwiches, fruits, and lemonade and set off with Lassie leading the way.

As they stroll through the woods, the boys see a group of rabbits hopping by. They decide to chase them, and Lassie follows them. They run for a while and eventually realize that they have lost their way. The boys get worried and start looking for a way back to the picnic spot. Lassie senses their anxiety and starts barking to call for help.

Meanwhile, Ellen and her husband, Dr. Paul, begin to worry about the boys' whereabouts. They were supposed to be back by lunchtime, but it is already mid-afternoon. They decide to drive around town and look for them. As they drive along the dusty roads, they notice that Lassie is running in the same direction as their car. They realize that Lassie is trying to lead them somewhere.

Lassie barks excitedly and jumps into the car, welcoming them with her warm and friendly affection. Ellen immediately understands that something is wrong and follows Lassie's lead. As they drive deeper into the woods, they hear the boys' voices and find them sitting on a log, looking tired and hungry.

Ellen is relieved to see the boys safe and sound and gives them some fruit and sandwiches. They all sit down and discuss what happened. Lassie reveals that she was the one who saved them by keeping a watchful eye on them and leading Ellen and Paul to their location. The boys are thankful to Lassie and realize that even on her day off, she is always ready to help them.

As they finish their picnic, and make their way back home, they realize that Lassie truly is a loyal and brave companion. The episode ends with a beautiful sunset and a feeling of contentment among the group.

In conclusion, season 1, episode 11 of Lassie is a heartwarming reminder of the power of friendship and loyalty. It showcases the importance of taking a break and spending time with loved ones, as well as the value of having a dependable friend like Lassie. Through its adventures, the show teaches its viewers valuable lessons about life and compassion and inspires them to be kind and brave in their own actions.