Elvis plays Rick Richards who
enters a partnership in a charter helicopter service with his
buddy played by James Shigeta. Rick is temporarily ground by the
FAA for losing control of his chopper. Meanwhile, Rick's buddy
crashes on a flight with his daughter on board. Without a
license, Rick comes to the rescue. Donna Butterworth plays the
sweet little scene stealer. The grown up girls that help out
just by being there are Suzanne Leigh, Marianna Hill and Linda
Wong.
Producer Hal Wallis recycles
Blue Hawaii and its story formula for this film, but to no
avail. Whereas Blue Hawaii was little more than a
travelogue, it was professional looking with some decent songs
and a star who still seemed to be in touch with some form of
reality. Nine songs make up a pleasant soundtrack. "This Is My
Heaven" and "Stop Where You Are" are hidden among much
flirtation with foolishness. Kauai is a breathtaking backdrop,
but the film is not on the same level. Ultimately, Paradise,
Hawaiian Style is grim and cheap entertainment.
4 out of 10
The
Video
Continuing its lackluster video
transfer, Paramount didn't spend enough time with the print.
Grain and bleak colors were present in the film, but
surprisingly these did not affect the viewing experience in a
major way, thanks in part to the film's visual style.
6 out of 10
The
Audio
Dolby Digital
sound is available in English 5.1 Surround, English Restored
Mono and French Mono. The film has a few scenes where the audio
quality makes its statement. Overall, this is a fairly well done
transfer.
8 out of 10
The
Extras
Nothing, except for English
subtitles.
1 out of 10
Overall
The film
didn't impress me much. Paradise failed to bring
excitement to the screen. Again, video quality was something
left to be desired, but the audio quality accentuated the
listening experience.
