Week-End in Havana
A ship company employee, Jay Williams, is sent to Florida where one of the company cruise ships is stuck on a reef off of the coast. He obtains waivers from all of the passengers with the exception of Nan Spencer, a department store salesgirl who wants her vacation now, not later. Jay is instructed to take Nan to Havana, set her up in the best hotel, and keep her entertained. She visits a nightclub where the star attraction is Rosita Rivas and meets Rosita's worthless manager, Monte Blanca, who makes a play for her. Trouble also comes in the form of Jay's fiancée, Terry McCracken, when a romance develops between Nan and Jay.
Insights
Plot Summary
A department store clerk travels to Havana, Cuba, hoping to find her missing fiancé, but instead gets caught up in a whirlwind of music, dancing, and romance. She unexpectedly finds herself falling for a handsome American architect while a fiery Brazilian singer tries to stir up trouble. The vibrant Cuban setting provides a backdrop for mistaken identities and musical numbers.
Critical Reception
Week-End in Havana was a moderately successful musical comedy of its era, praised for its colorful Technicolor presentation and lively musical numbers, particularly those featuring Carmen Miranda. While not critically groundbreaking, it offered escapist entertainment with a star-studded cast and energetic performances.
What Reviewers Say
- Praised for its vibrant Technicolor and energetic musical numbers.
- Appreciated for the lively performances, especially Carmen Miranda's.
- Seen as a pleasant, if formulaic, musical escapade.
Google audience: Audience reviews for this film are not readily available in a consolidated format.
Fun Fact
The film marked Carmen Miranda's Hollywood debut, where she quickly became known for her distinctive fruit-adorned headdresses and energetic performances.
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