Paradise, Hawaiian Style

Paradise, Hawaiian Style is a 1966 musical comedy that centers around the enchanting Hawaiian life and its fascinating landscapes, starring the iconic singer and songwriter Elvis Presley, the wonderfully charming Suzanna Leigh, and the charismatic James Shigeta. This lively and energetic film is a showcase of captivating Polynesian culture set in the breathtaking Hawaiian landscapes of traditional hula dancing, captivating music, and colorful parties.

Elvis Presley wonderfully slips into the role of Rick Richards, a promising pilot who loses his job in California due to his risky, cowboy-like flying style. Disheartened but determined to give his aviation career a second shot, Rick flies to Hawaii, the land of opportunity and beautiful seascapes. As Rick embarks on the new journey, he partners with his long-time friend, Danny Kohana, effectively portrayed by James Shigeta. Danny, a successful businessman, sees the potential of a helicopter company that runs charter services for tourists, exploring the paradise that is Hawaii from above, with a hint of adventure and thrill. Thus, begins their venture, Air Pohaku, meaning 'Air Rock' in Hawaiian.

In what becomes a real twist of destiny, Rick's fondness for romance proves to be both a blessing and trouble for him and his new venture. Rick falls for the beguiling Judy Hudson, played by Suzanna Leigh, who happens to be a consultant in the Hawaiian tourism office. Judy is charmed by Rick's passionate love for flying, adventurous nature, and his dazzling charm and charisma. The chemistry between them flourishes in the Polynesian paradise; however, the path of love is never smooth. Rick's escapades with other females and his attention-drawing flying shenanigans yield a negative spotlight on their budding helicopter business.

Alongside the main plot, the film brings countless subplots enhancing the comic taste of the plot, such as Rick's hilariously chaotic involvement with local island children, who wind up causing more mayhem than assisting, thus creating entertaining mischief under the blues skies of Hawaii. Occasionally, trouble brews for Rick and Danny's booming enterprise when Rick's daredevil flying creates problems. Coming to a climax, suspense is heightened for Rick as he must prove both his love for Judy and his professional worthiness.

Elvis Presley's role as Rick provides him with ample opportunities to serenade audiences with captivating and iconic songs. Presley's fans need no introduction to his fantastic, baritone voice, and in Paradise, Hawaiian Style, he utilizes it brilliantly to present a collection of songs it is known for. “Paradise, Hawaiian Style,” the title song, sets the upbeat tone of the film as Presley sings along the Hawaiian shores, and in the depth of the plot, the beautiful ballad "This is My Heaven" reflects his love for the island and Judy. The film, in total, showcases ten song numbers fueling the narrative, each adding artistic brushstrokes to the already picturesque backgrounds of Hawaii.

Along with the musical treats and comic plot, visually stunning cinematography also stands out remarkably, making Paradise, Hawaiian Style a treat to the eyes. The exotic locales, the captivating waterfalls, the thick, vibrant forests, and the endless beaches wonderfully capture the paradise that Hawaii is, enhancing the film's feel-good atmosphere.

In Paradise, Hawaiian Style, director Michael D. Moore has astutely blended elements of comedy, romance, and drama against a Hawaiian backdrop, playing into the idyllic representation of the island paradise while preserving the essence of Elvis' mesmerizing performances. The film is a throwback to the golden era of Hollywood when musicals aligned seamlessly with the narrative, creating a visually and auditorily memorable experience for audiences. The performance of the star cast, predominantly Elvis Presley, stands as a testament to the film's success and has contributed substantially to carving its unique identity in the realm of American cinema.

In conclusion, Paradise, Hawaiian Style comes as a refreshing breeze in the genre of musical comedy. It is a classic testament to Elvis Presley's superstar image and an eclectic blend of romance, music, adventure, and drama staged in the uniquely folkloric Hawaiian tapestry. This movie is a must-watch for Elvis fans and those seeking a vibrant, joyful cinema experience with a dash of romance and lots of terrific music performances.