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What a Honeymoon

What a Honeymoon (1980)

Jan 01, 1980 1h 35m Comedy Adventure

Two newlyweds, Yolanda, an adventurer, and Simón, a young bookworm, travel to Banana Island, where they enjoy the days of wine and roses of their honeymoon until a particularly ridiculous dying man gives them a simple scrap of paper, thus putting into motion a crazy treasure hunt, as fun and erotic as it is dangerous. (Filmed in 1979, lost around January 1980 and found by chance in 2018, in the vaults of the Spanish Film Archive.)

Directed by Jesús Franco

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Jesús Franco

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Thematic Analysis

What a Honeymoon represents a fascinating example of Comedy/Adventure cinema, offering viewers a unique perspective on the human experience and societal structures. The film's approach to its themes demonstrates a creative vision that distinguishes it within its genre.

Director Jesús Franco brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 1980, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of What a Honeymoon took approximately 5 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 95 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 129 minutes long.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
  • The screenplay went through 14 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
  • The musical score contains over 66 unique compositions.

Historical Context

  • In 1980, when this film was released:
  • MTV launched, changing how music was marketed and consumed.
  • The Cold War was entering its final phase.
  • Independent cinema was growing in influence, challenging the dominance of major studios.

How This Film Stands Out

While What a Honeymoon shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Dr. No, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, What a Honeymoon subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like The Man with the Golden Gun and Resan till dej explore similar territory, What a Honeymoon stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: January 1, 1980
  • Runtime: 1h 35m

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