Swiss Family Robinson

The young Aborigine Tomtom was orphaned when white settlers killed his parents. When he learns the Robinsons were headed to Australia as colonists, he rejects their friendship, and it takes all Becca's ingenuity to change his mind.

Morton is grumpy and troublesome, drinking the medicinal alcohol and offering the children cigars. But when Becca gets into a tight spot, she discovers a warmer side to the gruff captain.

Tomtom's skills offer exciting opportunities for the Robinsons. He introduces Mrs. Robinson to new island foods, and helps the children capture and train an ostrich.

Volcanic activity threatens the island, and Morton decides it is time to leave. He takes a canoe and supplies from the Robinsons, and secretly paddles off.

As rumblings spread over the island, the animals grow restless and the people worried. During the night an earthquake hits, collapsing the cave.

While the Robinsons worry about how to leave the island, Morton returns suffering from exposure to the sun, and they learn they have misjudged him.

Ernest and Morton devise a last-chance plan to escape from the island. Morton directs the shipbuilding, and everyone pitches in.

With grueling effort, the boat is completed. The donkey helps with the launch -- the last work he is ever to do for the Robinsons.

While the castaways wait for a favorable tide, they struggle over what to do with their animals.

Morton is adamant -- no animals on board. Space and supplies are limited, but Becca can't face leaving their animal friends behind.

Though getting away has long been their dream, the Robinsons find it hard to say good-bye to their island home and the exciting life they found there.

The excitement of the trip turns to desperation when, after three weeks at sea, food and water run short. A fresh palm leaf promises that land is near.

Arriving in Australia, the Robinsons are reintroduced to civilization -- and to some old friends.