Club Paradise is a 1986 comedy film directed by Harold Ramis, starring Robin Williams as a retired firefighter who teams up with a group of quirky characters to turn a struggling Caribbean resort into a thriving tropical haven. The film blends humor with scenic escapism, showcasing a talented ensemble cast and a lively setting.
Plot Summary
In the movie, overassessment of the family slant leads to Jack Moniker (Robin Williams), a fire fellow from the windy city, moving out to a ‘tropical paradise’ with his family. He teams up with Ernie Reed (reggae musician Jimmy Cliff) and they change the derelict club paradise into an exclusive resort style. But the hotel, like many others, is running into significant problems, including economic lack of resources, mindless tourists, and an over-ambitious hotel magnate looking to annex the island.
While the local wisdom remains intact, their attempts are comical in nature and more through word of mouth as the film develops into a story of friends and never give up attitude.
Notable Cast and Characters
- Robin Williams as Jack Moniker: Williams brings his signature improvisational humor to the role, infusing the character with warmth and charm.
- Jimmy Cliff as Ernest Reed: The legendary musician not only acts but contributes to the film’s reggae-infused soundtrack.
- Peter O’Toole as Governor Anthony Cloyden Hayes: O’Toole delivers a delightfully eccentric performance as the island’s dignitary.
- Rick Moranis and Eugene Levy as Barry and Barry: This comedic duo plays two hapless tourists, adding a layer of absurdity and chaos to the film.
- Joanna Cassidy as Phillipa Lloyd: She portrays a savvy travel writer with a romantic subplot tied to Moniker.
Cultural and Cinematic Context
“During the common vacation-themed genre that became popular in the 1980s, ‘Club Paradise’ served to be a comical depiction that also incorporated beautiful beaches. For the timeline where the movie was made, it did well to combine a sense of realism that was quite common for the timeframe, as well as showing reggae and tropical culture.”
Despite being rated poorly by critics, the movie grew to have a cult fan base due to its mellow atmosphere and how well some actors including Robin Williams and Peter O’Toole performed.
Critical Reception
Critics gave the film a mixed review, commending Robin Williams and Peter O’Toole’s performances yet feeling the screenplay needed improvement. As for the film’s humor, criticism was directed towards the disjointed humor that accompanied Ramis’ direction which showcased the cuteness of the location and the characters.
But that said, people who love ensemble comedies along with Robin Williams’s fans find ‘Club Paradise’ quite entertaining.
Fun Facts
- Filming Location: The movie was shot in Jamaica, adding authenticity to its picturesque Caribbean setting.
- Music: Jimmy Cliff’s contributions to the soundtrack lend a genuine reggae feel to the movie, complementing its tropical theme.
- Robin Williams’s Improvisation: As with many of his roles, Williams improvised several lines, adding his signature comedic flair.
Recommendation
For those who love Robin Williams comedy and by extension rather consider watching his movie Club Paradise, they are going to love it. It’s easy going and windsweeping. Ideal for a lackadaisical movie rest. Another suggestion in the unpleasant crease of ahs and lots of air would be 1988’s The Great Outdoors or 1989’s Weekend at Bernie’s.
