Frank Tuttle (2) (1892–1963)

“If men could count on women like that star, there’d be much smoother sailing. And a lot less wrecks.” — Bing to Shirley Ross

This pleasant 1930s escapism may be the quintessential Crosby film. Filled with nice songs like “Blue Hawaii” and Harry Owens’ Academy Award winner, “Sweet Leilani,” and an enjoyable story you don't have to think about too much, it entertains and leaves a smile on every film buff’s face.

Bing is publicity idea man Tony Marvin. His latest brainstorm is about to backfire because Georgia Smith (Shirley Ross), the Pineapple Girl, wants to go home rather than write a weekly column about how great Hawaii is. Substituting his own flowery descriptions of the islands, he romances her to keep his boss and his job. But of course it all backfires when he falls in love with her.

A very young Anthony Quinn helps pal Tony keep Georgia from heading back home with an only-in-the-movies ruse involving a sacred black pearl and a volcano. Bob Burns lends support as Bing’s sidekick whose pig, Wolford, gets more affection than Georgia’s pal Myrtle (Martha Raye). As he explains to Myrtle: “I hope you don't think I’m braggin’, but there’s just somethin’ about me a pig can’t resist.”

A nice mingling of actual locations in Hawaii with obvious studio sets provide a fun and romantic trip just short of boarding the old China Clipper herself. Classic movie buffs, especially fans of 1930s films, will want to get their tickets before this ship sails!… (més)