I don't understand some of the negative criticism. I get the color filters because that is quite annoying. But you have to also remember the time period and how cool the different technology is to them. To us now the color filter thing does not even hit our radar but back then the director probably was excited and thought it would enhance the film. In an interview he did say that was one of his biggest regrets. When I watch this I view it as a piece of history so it doesn't seem as annoying. I actually started to find it cool, especially during Bali Hai, because the island is such a mystery to us at that moment and Bloody Mary sings of its power so the changing color kind of adds to it in a way. Maybe I am the only person to think that but it works for me.
With the story line, I get that to some it is cheesy but think about their circumstances. In real life these people are stuck on a remote island with hardly any contact with loved ones (besides letters of course)and they go through some tough times together awaiting the impending war. In fact I think it would be quite easy to fall in love with someone really quickly when your stuck on an island and have no idea when or if you will return home. Plus don't forget when the movie begins Nelly and Emile already know and spend time with each other. I love the romance between them. One minute she is saying she is going to wash that man out of her hair and the next she is giddy and dancing on the beach. Nelly is supposed to be a young naive person, and Mitzi Gayner portrays that very well. With Joe Cable, he knows that the mission he has been assigned to do is pretty much a suicide mission (no brainer there). So again, it doesn't surprise me that he develops strong feelings for Liat in such a short time. Plus don't forget to us, watching the movie, it seems like a short amount of time. But in reality the whole movie is most likely 1-2 months, maybe even 3, worth of time.
How can anyone criticize the use of racism in this movie? This story is set in WWII era when racism was still very prominent. One person said they don't feel for Nelly or Joe, are you kidding? Most every person in this time period was in some way racist, so based on that you shouldn't feel for most people in that time period at all. I think it is so important to maintain historical accuracy, especially that Nelly was dramatic about it (she was also a young naive girl from Little Rock, so of course she was as dramatic as she was!). And I think it was absolutely adorable how it ended with Nelly spending time with Emile's children. She realized when she had to tell Liat that Joe died that she did not want to live without Emile and she didn't care whether he had a wife that was Polynesian just that she loved him. So she spent time getting to know his children, hoping that he would return so she could make amends. I don't understand how you could criticize her for that.
Someone said they didn't like Joe's death. I didn't like it because I love John Kerr and his character, but I think it was necessary for the ending to the story. If he came back it would be almost too happy to be realistic. Also he is a very complex person. It surprises me someone as young as him seemed to volunteer for that mission (Captain Brackett was even shocked he was assigned to lead it) I don't know maybe it's just me. And like I said before I think it added to Nelly getting over the racism that stood between her and Emile's relationship.
I understand musicals aren't everyone's cup of tea, but this one is a masterpiece. The music, the acting, and the story line are so great. I'm sure this version isn't the best anyone could do. I would love to see a new movie version made of this and see if they can top it. The color filter thing is the only negative thing I could say about this. I think it is such a shame that movies nowadays are not as meaningful as these musicals are. I am a college aged student and have a deep appreciation for Rogers and Hammerstein, especially South Pacific.
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robm256
11 years ago
Great post, thanks for sharing your views. I agree with everthing you said.
Jeanne, Gloria, Toby, Mitzi, Eleanor (2), Frances, Deborah, Marion, Alice, Darcey - are adorable.
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CineNutty
11 years ago
Strongly disagree that it is horrible or that it is a 6.7. It is the genre that is under attack, not the production values which were difficult and done away from a sound stage. It is a classic American musical and touches on a number of subjects - loved the music, loved the setting, and it is romantic despite the negativity of some reviews. Also noted, John Kerr who played Lt. Cable recently died after years of practice as a successful attorney. Thus, I endorse your assessment.
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scottevans57-426-185921
9 years ago
Thanks for restoring faith, it was getting wobbly for a moment. It's a shame we've let things erode to the extent that we have, and rather than blame the younger generation (for what? following along after us, the custodians, who've let it crumble), I tend to passively read negative comments, despairing somewhat, until you came along. So, again, thanks.
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