Directed by Victor Schertzinger

Of the four movies in this collection, Road to Singapore is either my favourite or second favourite. Most comments I’ve seen about these films seem to rate this one at the botton of the list and while I think I know why, I don’t feel the same way.

As the first of the series, this movie has no previous films to fall back on. So there is no nod to the audience as a routine or other element is recapitulated, which the later movies relied on (especially Road to Utopia). But I think this is why I like this one. Often, in the later films, this acknowledgement feels forced and ill-concieved (though it does work on some occasions).

Road to Singapore relies entirely on the relationships and the comedic talents of the players. And it works so well that … hey, they made 6 sequels!

My favourite part of this film is the “Sweet Potato Piper” song. It’s not only silly but also fun watching Dorothy Lamour trying not to laugh too hard. There is a genuine sense that the performers are having a ball and it makes it a joy to watch.

I couldn’t begin to tell you what the plot is - as with the other Road movies, it’s irrelevant. The film is all about the banter between Hope and Crosby and, of course, Dottie - Dorothy Lamour.

3½ stars out of 4.

(Originally posted in 2002.)

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