Nancy Goes to Rio

Every actor contributes significantly to this picture. Ann Sothern and Jane Powell deliver in ways they are expected to; and even Louis Calhern performs a number in a rare musical role. Barry Sullivan adds charm as the leading man, and Hans Conried, in a bit part, is letter-perfect as ever. But Carmen Miranda is the one that walks off with the movie, in two show-stopping numbers.

Sidney Sheldon's script has a lot of humor in it. Filmed in glorious Technicolor with some good on-location footage of Rio, including the carnival and parade at night. This was a remake of Universal's earlier film It's a Date, where the young ingénue was Deanna Durbin, and the mother was played by Kay Francis (who did not sing).

Great production values highlight this musical comedy that revolves around a pair of misunderstandings that blossom to full effect.

With her Debbie Reynolds looks and her operatic voice, Jane Powell is wonderful as 17-year-old Nancy Barklay, a budding actress. Her mother, Frances--also an actress--is played by Ann Sothern. The two of them are wonderful together. In fact the entire cast fits together nicely in this light-hearted story that deals with music more than romance. Barry Sullivan plays Paul Berten, the man who sort of comes between them. Louis Calhern is Frances' father, an old song and dance man himself. Carmen Miranda goes full fruit basket with a couple of catchy tunes. Hans Conreid is underused as the family butler.

Technicolor brightens the screen and shows off some great sets, especially the family home in Rio. The wardrobe is striking.

Jane Powell gets to display her classical credentials with a solo from La Boheme.

"Nancy Goes to Rio" is an enjoyable excursion designed to put a smile on the face of viewers. And it does just that.

Pleasant is a good word for this film. While not one of the top-five musicals, it is well made and enjoyable. Ann Sothern and Jane Powell play mother and daughter who fall for the same man while in South America (No location shoots here. The furthest south anybody working on this movie traveled was probably Long Beach). There are some interesting numbers here, in great part because some of the songs and styles included were rare by the time this movie was made. "Shine On Harvest Moon," an old song, is sung and danced by Sothern, Powell, and amazingly enough, Louis Calhern. "Time and Time Again" is a Nelson Eddy-Jeanette McDonald type number which features Sothern and is probably one of the last of that style to be filmed. The bulk of the musical numbers feature Jane Powell who sings well, as always. Yet, for me, the high point of the film is the number featuring Carmen Miranda. I think it's one of her best. This was Carmen Miranda's next-to-last film and also the last musical for Ann Sothern.

Frances Elliott (Ann Sothern) is an established stage star and her daughter, Nancy (Jane Powell) is an aspiring actress. However, some potential hurt feelings might be in store for them, as Frances assumes that the lead in an upcoming play will be hers...but the producer and author see someone much younger....and want Nancy instead. Could this get any worse? Well, later it appears that they are vying for the same man (Barry Sullivan)!

Despite the plot sounding a bit scandalous, it really isn't. In fact, it's just a nice old fashioned musical and makes for decent viewing. Far from a must see but enjoyable. My only reservation is for someone who has a fear of clowns...they should NOT watch the picture as some mega-creepy clowns do a song and dance number with Carmen Miranda near the end...and it will most likely unnerve you.

As a fan of musicals and who gets great enjoyment out of seeing Jane Powell and Carmen Miranda, 'Nancy Goes to Rio' didn't disappoint at all, actually getting more or less what was expected.

Only the story in 'Nancy Goes to Rio' isn't so good. It does go overboard on the silliness and is both thin and too busy at times, with narrative surprises next to none. The ending is also rather abrupt and strange and the romance is bland somewhat and feels like an afterthought.

However, as to be expected, 'Nancy Goes to Rio' is a glorious-looking film. The sets and costumes are suitably opulent and complemented beautifully by the radiant cinematography and the big, bold and rich colours.

The music is always a pleasant listen and infectiously upbeat. "Magic is the Moonlight" and especially "Shine on Harvest Moon" stand out, as does Carmen Miranda's colourful and to-be-seen-to-be-believed second production number. Nice use of "Quando M'En Vo" too from Puccini's 'La Boheme'. The choreography is cleverly done, especially in Miranda's second production number.

Furthermore the script is filled with snappy lines that crackle in energy and wit, the whole film is breezily directed and the whole film is just full of fun and charm, just perfect for 100 minutes escapist entertainment.

Jane Powell is her usual pert and charming self and is in wonderful voice. Ann Southern more than matches her as her mother. Meanwhile Carmen Miranda is a riot in material that shows off her talent splendidly, Louis Culhern is sparkling comedic support and Barry Sullivan is effectively subdued without being bland.

On the whole, a Technicolor and musical treat, as long as you don't demand too much. 8/10 Bethany Cox