I'd never seen an Elvis movie before and decided it was about time to check one out, and Blue Hawaii was the one. There was a lot more singing than I was expecting. I mean it is an Elvis movie so I was expecting a few musical numbers but Blue Hawaii has I think 14 of them. They vary in quality but overall they're fun, and enjoyable. The scenery is really beautiful with Hawaii looking like a true island paradise, Edith Head did the costumes, so those add to the visual appeal as well. Of course, I already knew Elvis could sing, but wasn't sure about his acting. I think he does a very fine job, is very likable and easy to watch here, and it makes me wonder what he could do with a meatier script. Angela Lansbury is normally very good but I found her performance as a southern, domineering matriarch very heavy handed and distracting. Joan Blackman does her best and is fine, but playing opposite Presley she's a little flat. The rest of the cast is very good and despite a weak story filled with lots of cliches and awkward moments, I found Elvis and Blue Hawaii enjoyable.
Review of Blue Hawaii
