July 5 2023

Moon Over Parador is a whimsical political satire film released in 1988. The film follows the story of Jack Noah (played by Richard Dreyfuss), a struggling American actor who is visiting the South American country of Parador on a film, which is ruled by a brutal dictator named Alphonse Simms. The actual President, Alphonse Simms, is a ruthless dictator who suffers a fatal heart attack during one of his regular escapades with prostitutes. To avoid an imminent coup, the scheming Chief of Police (Raul Julia) offers Jack the opportunity to impersonate the president in order to maintain the status quo and prevent chaos. Initially hesitant, Jack is finally convinced by the promise of the luxurious accommodations and the opportunity to play the role of a lifetime.

The hate of men will pass, and dictators die, and the power they took from the people will return to the people. And so long as men die, liberty will never perish. Charlie Chaplin

At first, Jack is ambivalent about the idea of becoming the dictator of Parador, but he is quickly seduced by the luxurious lifestyle as well as the opportunity to play the role of a lifetime. Despite his initial incompetence, as Jack delves deeper into his new role, he realizes the difficulties and dangers of being the leader of a country, especially a country with a history of dictatorship and oppression. Jack soon discovers that he can use his newfound power to make a positive impact on the people of Parador, such as helping political prisoners, developing infrastructure, and supporting local businesses. He begins to implement progressive policies and improves the lives of the citizens, but he soon realizes that his position of power is tenuous and that he is in danger of being overthrown by the military.

However, there are numerous obstacles he encounters along the way, from the corrupt officials who want him to continue the way Alphonse Simms did things, to the rebels and revolutionaries who want to overthrow the government entirely. Jack becomes entangled in a dangerous game of politics, as he struggles to balance his desire to help the country with his desire to keep his own life.

As he juggles his new responsibilities and fends off attempts on his life, Jack finds himself falling for Madonna Mendez (played by Sonia Braga), the mistress of the deceased dictator who immediately knows he is not Simms, and yet schools him on Simms' mannerisms to maintain the charade in an effort to help improve the lives of her people. However, his newfound power also forces him to confront his own morality and the compromises he must make to maintain his position.

The movie explores themes of power, corruption, and hypocrisy, shedding light on the realities of politics and governance, successfully delivering a message about the importance of democracy and individual freedom.

Overall, "Moon Over Parador" is a delightful and entertaining film with a touch of political satire. The movie boasts compelling performances from its cast, especially Richard Dreyfuss who portrays the bumbling yet endearing Jack Noah. The film also showcases the vivid sights and sounds of Latin America, with its lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and colorful people.

Good Night Mr. and Mrs. America and all the ships at sea. God Bless.