Hawaii Calls

Hawaii Calls is a heartwarming and enchanting drama-musical from 1938. Directed by Edward F. Cline, the film features a young, charismatic Bobby Breen in the lead role. Breen, a notable child actor of the 1930s era renowned for his singing talent, showcases a delightful performance as an adventurous and canny lad, Billy. Enlisting the talented support of veteran actors Ned Sparks and Irvin S. Cobb, the film is wrapped in an engaging narrative steeped in a mix of youthful tenacity, musical interludes, and tropical island ambiance.

The film smoothly opens with the story of Billy, a plucky, resourceful young boy who dwells in San Francisco. After a bout of mischief lands him in trouble, the adventurous lad stows away on a luxurious cruise liner promising an escape to the irresistible charm of the Hawaiian islands. Billy's journey is not only geographical but also an expedition into the dynamics of familial relationships, friendships, and a burgeoning understanding of adult world problems and resolutions.

Well-known for his acidic tongue and comedic timing, Ned Sparks is impeccable as the grouchy yet generous Captain O'Hare. Sparks successfully combines crustiness with cordiality, providing a fitting and appealing balance. Notably, Irvin S. Cobb – famed humorist and actor – delightfully essays the role of conservatively opinionated and comical Colonel "Breezy" Wingate, a man with a soft spot that gradually reveals itself over the course of the story.

The film highlights a clear delineation of disparate worlds–Billy's carefree, vibrant life onboard the ship contrasted sharply with the realities of the adult universe, enamored by money and sinister plots, as represented by other characters. The narrative manages to blend these worlds in marginally tangled situations, eventually revealing a tender intersection where warmth and wisdom overpower greed and deceit.

Hawaii Calls' beauty is further elevated by the enchanting Hawaiian setting. Packed with stunning panoramic shots, the film indulges in lavish seascape sequences featuring beautiful sunsets, palm trees, and lustrous sandy beaches, providing a serene, picturesque backdrop to the evolving storyline. The lush, tropical charm fused with authentic Hawaiian music coupled with Bobby Breen's distinct vocals results in a pleasurable, immersive cinematic and auditory experience.

Breen's musical numbers are presented with delightful ease and charm. His renditions of both Island tunes and contemporary hits of the period are spread strategically throughout the movie, functioning as priceless serenade sessions to the audiences. These musical intervals, rather than stalling the plot, seamlessly integrate into the narrative, enhancing the film's entertainment quotient.

Billy's friendships, a crucial subplot of the movie, is a beautiful portrayal of mutual respect and camaraderie. Including the character of an orphan girl named Pua (played by Hawaiian local Lei Aloha), the film presents a heartwarming bond that develops between two children from contrasting backgrounds, instilling lessons of understanding and humanity.

Given the time of its production, Hawaii Calls may appear simplistic in terms of its narrative structure and character development. However, the film's magic lies in its straightforwardness. It captures the spirit of childhood adventure and infuses it with melodious symphonies and a strong emotional core.

In summary, Hawaii Calls is a charming film that encapsulates a glorious mix of musical prowess, warm-hearted drama and alluring tropical beauty. It not only bears witness to the prodigious talent of its young lead but also showcases commendable performances from the seasoned supporting cast. This engaging, family-friendly musical drama retains a universal appeal that resonates well beyond the specific time of its release, extending a warm aloha to every viewer, young, and old. The vibrancy and innocence embodied in Hawaii Calls, coupled with its captivating Hawaiian allure, ensure a gratifying watch that leaves audiences with a lingering smile, a humming tune, and an longing for a Hawaiian escapade.