Paradise, Hawaiian Style DVD Review:


The Movie

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.

Overall DVD Rating: 4 out of 10

Site Contents Copyright© The Z Review, unless used with permission.This site has no intention to infringe on the rights of the film owners of Paradise, Hawaiian Style and intellectual copyright holders of the movies mentioned herein & hold copyright over the movie, characters, merchandise & storyline.