Down Argentine Way

Down Argentine Way is a high-spirited, Technicolor musical movie from 1940 that showcases a wealth of talent including Don Ameche, Betty Grable, and Carmen Miranda in one of her first U.S. films. This joyous and playful film is celebrated as an early example of Fox's successful musicals during the 1940s. Directed by Irving Cummings, it features a story that taunts the edges of a love triangle, a passion for horse racing, misunderstandings, family honor, and exotic locales wrapped in an air of comedic sequins and Latin American rhythms.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Buenos Aires, Down Argentine Way pivots around the young and handsome Ricardo Quintana (Don Ameche), the scion of a traditional Argentine family which takes pride in their purebred racehorses. The gaiety of the plot takes flight when Americana Glenda Crawford (Betty Grable) steps on Argentine soil bearing an obsession for racehorses. An accidental encounter intertwines the destinies of Glenda and Ricardo, plot-propelling glances leading to sparkling romance coupled with melodies that reach the heart.

Grable was at the dawn of her stardom when she took on the role of Glenda, a high-spirited and adventurous young woman. She exemplifies charm and dexterity, whether she's navigating the complex strata of Argentine society or enchanting the audience with her signature dance numbers. Glenda's enthusiasm for life and love sets the exhilarating tone the movie carries throughout. Equally captivating, Ameche, who plays the gallant Ricardo, carries off his character with an effortless grace, his sophisticated bearing subtly hinting at the conflict between tradition and his burgeoning romance.

Comic relief and energy come via Carmen Miranda, who plays Carmen, a delightful local entertainer known for her flamboyant style. Miranda channels the vivacious spirit of Latin music and dance, bringing the South American vibrancy to life with her signature fruit-laden turbans and dazzling performances. Her effervescent presence and irresistible musical numbers are one of the distinctive features of the film that leave an indelible mark on the viewers.

Providing an unexpected twist to the love story, Ricardo’s father, Don Diego Quintana (Henry Stephenson), is introduced as a character who resents Americans due to a past event, challenging the blooming romance between Ricardo and Glenda. As the plot unfolds, the audience is treated to an engaging montage of sizzling Latin American dance sequences, captivating comedy, colorful costumes, and heartfelt renditions which beautifully portray the cultural amalgamation of Argentina and America. The spirited dialogues, flamboyant fashion of the era, and vivid backgrounds further add to the captivating atmosphere of the film.

The film’s score captures the essence of the story and the lush Argentine culture, featuring a harmonic blend of popular Fox musical numbers and South American tunes. The music and song numbers, including “Down Argentine Way,” “Sing to Your Senorita,” and the unforgettable “Mamãe Eu Quero,” help to encapsulate the soulful love story in an enchanting, rhythmic cocoon.

Adding to the musical and acting bonanza is the dynamic cinematography which paints a vibrant spectacle of the Argentine landscape, races, nightclubs, and Buenos Aires high society life. The film also boasts an impressive line-up of supporting players including Leonid Kinskey, J. Carrol Naish, and Chris-Pin Martin who bring a lively dynamic to the plotline.

Down Argentine Way is as much a celebration of the blending of different cultures as it is a charming love story and musical extravaganza. With its infectiously effervescent performances, resplendent visuals, and foot-tapping music, the film is a luminous and rhythmic spectacle that provides a luxurious escape, transporting its audience to the heart of sunny Buenos Aires in the 1940s. The brilliant performances and palpable chemistry among the cast make it a much-loved classic, which appeals not just to fans of the musical genre, but also to anyone seeking a feel-good cinematic experience.