Fiesta (1947 film)

Fiesta french poster

Fiesta is a 1947 musical film directed by Richard Thorpe and produced by Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer. The film stars Esther Williams, Ricardo Montalbán, John Carroll, and Cyd Charisse. The screenplay was written by George Bruce and László Vadnay.

Plot

The story is set in Mexico and revolves around the lives of twins Maria and Mario Morales, played by Esther Williams and Ricardo Montalbán, respectively. Maria is a talented swimmer, while Mario is a gifted bullfighter. Their father, Antonio Morales, portrayed by Fortunio Bonanova, is a retired bullfighter who dreams of his son following in his footsteps. However, Mario harbors a secret passion for music and wishes to become a composer.

When Mario runs away to pursue his musical career, Maria disguises herself as her brother to take his place in the bullring. The film explores themes of family expectations, personal ambition, and the cultural significance of bullfighting in Mexico.

Cast

• Esther Williams as Maria Morales
• Ricardo Montalbán as Mario Morales
• John Carroll as José "Pepe" Ortega
• Cyd Charisse as Conchita
• Fortunio Bonanova as Antonio Morales
• Akim Tamiroff as Chato Vasquez
• Mary Astor as Señora Morales

Production

The film was shot on location in Mexico and features elaborate musical numbers and bullfighting scenes. Esther Williams, known for her swimming prowess, performed several aquatic sequences, while Ricardo Montalbán showcased his dancing skills. The film's music was composed by Johnny Green and Adolph Deutsch, with lyrics by E. Y. Harburg.

Reception

Fiesta received mixed reviews from critics but was praised for its vibrant Technicolor cinematography and musical performances. The film was a commercial success and contributed to the rising popularity of Ricardo Montalbán and Esther Williams in Hollywood.

Legacy

Fiesta is remembered for its unique blend of musical and cultural elements, as well as its portrayal of Mexican traditions. The film is also notable for featuring one of the early performances of Cyd Charisse, who would later become a prominent figure in Hollywood musicals.

See also

• List of American films of 1947
• Musical film
• Bullfighting in popular culture

External links

Fiesta at IMDb

[https://www.allmovie.com/movie/vfiesta-v17714

   Fiesta at AllMovie