Bird of Paradise (1932)
Bird of Paradise is a 1932 American romantic drama film directed by King Vidor and starring Dolores Del Rio, Joel McCrea, and Richard Arlen. The film follows a young Polynesian woman, Luana, who falls in love with a white man, Johnny, who is shipwrecked on her island.
The film is notable for its sexual moments, which were quite daring for the time. One of the most memorable scenes is when Luana and Johnny first meet. As they gaze into each other’s eyes, the camera pans down to their feet, which are intertwined. This was a very bold move for a film in 1932, as it suggested a physical connection between the two characters.
Another scene that stands out is when Luana and Johnny are swimming in the ocean. As they embrace in the water, the camera pans up to their faces, which are inches apart. This was a very intimate moment, and it was quite daring for the time.
The film also features a scene in which Luana and Johnny are in bed together. This was a very risqué scene for 1932, as it implied that the two characters had consummated their relationship.
Overall, Bird of Paradise is a classic film that is still remembered today for its daring sexual moments. The film pushed the boundaries of what was acceptable in the 1930s, and it is a testament to the power of cinema.
A man and woman go swimming at night in the water. He is wearing tight shorts. She is fully nude with her butt visible, but shadows cover her front side.
The female lead has an extended sequence on an island topless except for leis that cover her breasts. Her breasts are not shown. The male lead spends much of the time on the island in nothing but a brief loincloth.