Holiday for Lovers (1959)

Holiday for Lovers Poster

Clifton Webb as a strict, conservative father heads the cast of this 1959 comedy, about an American family vacationing in South America. Directed by Henry Levin, the film also features Jane Wyman, Jill St. John, Carol Lynley, Paul Henreid, Gary Crosby, Henny Backus, Wally Brown, Gardner McKay and Jose Greco.

Introduction
"Holiday for Lovers" is a 1959 romantic comedy film directed by Henry Levin. It features widely known stars of that age, consisting of Clifton Webb, Jane Wyman, Jill St. John, and Carol Lynley. The film, based upon the play by Ronald Alexander, provides a funny journey into the lives of the Dean household as they browse the obstacles of a South American holiday and their children' budding romantic lives.

Plot Synopsis
Clifton Webb plays the function of Robert Dean, a conservative Boston psychologist struggling to adjust to the moving characteristics of his family characteristics. His other half, Mary, represented by Jane Wyman, is eager for their 2 daughters, Meg and Betsy, to experience the world before they calm down. Meg, the eldest, played by Jill St. John, is engaged to be wed while the younger Betsy, played by Carol Lynley, is still in her final year of high school. The storyline starts to unwind when Mary prepares a surprise family journey to South America-- where Meg's fiancé has been working-- without Robert's knowledge.

The Family's Journey
Robert hesitantly agrees with the journey but his professional impulses as a psychologist and his protective nature as a daddy make him deeply analytical and suspicious of individuals. This is especially apparent when Meg's charming, effective fiancé, Eduardo Barroso (Paul Henreid), is introduced. Robert's examination only magnifies when Betsy becomes included with a good-looking, yet mystical boy, Carlos (Gary Crosby), who appears to be courting her quite vehemently.

The Deans Navigate New Circumstances
During their journey, the household visits Rio de Janeiro and Santiago where amusing circumstances take place due to Robert's scrutiny and overprotection. Nevertheless, Eduardo proves a gentleman, dealing with Meg with the utmost regard and soon wins over Robert's trust. On the other hand, Carlos, the young Brazilian who started dating Betsy, ends up being of decent character too. It is later exposed that he is a Brazilian Diplomat's son, and his genuine interest in Betsy puts Robert at ease.

Conclusion
The entire narrative unfolds in lightheartedness, household drama, and elements of love. "Holiday for Lovers" magnificently represents the bond a family shares, even in times of confusion and unpredictability. The movie culminates in a pleasant surprise, as Meg chooses to marry Eduardo, and Betsy decides to go to college, much to Robert's relief.

"Holiday for Lovers" functions as both a romantic and comedic screen of a 1950s American family's craze and confusion surrounding their children' love lives. Clifton Webb's funny depiction of an over-analytical father having a hard time to accept his daughters' romantic choices is the emphasize of the film. The South American setting creates an unique backdrop that only amplifies the progressing relationships and household characteristics. This film offers a wonderful and light-hearted viewing experience, marking it as a timeless romantic funny of its time.

Top Cast

  • Clifton Webb (small)
    Clifton Webb
    Robert Dean
  • Jane Wyman (small)
    Jane Wyman
    Mrs. Mary Dean
  • Jill St. John (small)
    Jill St. John
    Meg Dean
  • Carol Lynley (small)
    Carol Lynley
    Betsy Dean
  • Paul Henreid (small)
    Paul Henreid
    Eduardo Barroso
  • Gary Crosby (small)
    Gary Crosby
    Tech Sgt. Paul Gattling
  • José Greco (small)
    José Greco
    Himself, Dancer
  • Ernesto Zambrano
    Waiter
  • Wendy Wilde
    American stewardess
  • Harry J. Vejar
    Spaniard in café
  • Felipe Turich
    Café patron