Honeymoon in Bali

Set against the beautiful and exotic backdrop of Bali, the 1939 romantic comedy movie "Honeymoon in Bali," directed by Edward H. Griffith, offers the audience a classic tale of love, individual growth, and self-discovery. The movie features well-known actors from Hollywood's Golden Age – Fred MacMurray, Madeleine Carroll, and Allan Jones, whose performances lends charm to this timeless romance.

In this delightful movie, Madeleine Carroll stars as Gail Allen, a successful New York businesswoman who staunchly toils away to boost her career in the world of departmental stores. Devoted wholeheartedly to her job, Gail staunchly believes that career and success are superior to marriage and thus vows to be an eternal spinster. For her, the thought of settling down in marital bliss seems to jeopardize her hard-earned independence and ability to achieve yet more success. However, her self-assured existence is humorously challenged when she encounters the charismatic and simple-hearted Bill 'Willie' Burnet, portrayed by the charming Fred MacMurray.

Bill is a significantly wealthy plantation owner from Dutch Indonesian Island or Bali who leads a simple and enchanting life on the island, demonstrating that happiness and contentment can be found outside a bustling career. When Bill meets Gail, he is instantly drawn to her and believes she is destined to be his wife. Thus begins his relentless pursuit to woo her, hoping to convince her that there is more to life than her job and that love and marriage can coexist with aspirations and ambitions.

The movie further intensifies when a third character comes into play, Eric Sinclair, a dapper man-about-town, portrayed flawlessly by Allan Jones. Gail, who originally states she's not interested in a relationship or marriage, finds herself torn between the compelling allure of both men - her attraction to Bill and his tropical paradise versus the sophisticated, city-based Eric providing a life she’s accustomed to.

"Honeymoon in Bali" masterfully captures the varied perspectives on love, marriage, career, and feminine independence during the 1930s era. It portrays societal expectations and the ingrained belief that women must choose between domesticity and a career. The contrast between the bustling streets of New York City and the serene beauty of Bali becomes a metaphor for the conflict Gail experiences within herself. The movie challenges these established norms and portrays a woman’s journey to seek a balance between personal and professional aspirations.

The performances by the lead cast are one of the many reasons for this movie's enduring appeal. Madeleine Carroll gracefully captures her character's transformation from a determined working woman to someone who questions her priorities and personal needs. Fred MacMurray's charismatic portrayal of a good-hearted, persistent suitor captures the audience's heart, while Allan Jones competently adds another layer to the narrative through his portrayal of a sophisticated yet equally interesting suitor who symbolizes the life that Gail is accustomed to yet may not essentially desire.

There's a brightness and breeziness to "Honeymoon in Bali," making it a feel-good movie. The sharp dialogues and humorous sequences provide it with an edge, making it a reflection of the classic romantic comedies of the era. The cinematographic choices do justice to the narrative, successfully contrasting the appeal of the cosmopolitan city with the tranquil allure of the tropical island.

As the name suggests, "Honeymoon in Bali" isn't merely a love story but a journey of introspection and personal growth. It challenges the societal norms of its era, addresses the conflict between personal and professional life, and ultimately leaves the audience with a reaffirmed belief in love and its transcending power. This 1939 classic is, without doubt, a feast for any lover of old Hollywood movies, artistically combining elements of romance, comedy, and drama.