The films of Mitchell Leisen do have that special touch that confers them a particular brightness and interest. In this movie Dorothy Lamour plays a thief's (George Rigaud) girlfiend tricked to carry a stolen smuggling diamond to Mexico whithout her knowledge. Once there she gets rid of the jewel by putting it into a strange's pocket who happens to be Patric Knowles. A succession of events and the meeting with Mexican famous torero (Arturo de Córdova, who also appeared in Leisen's Frenchman's creek) who runs after her lead to a Mexican villa where miss Lamour sings some songs disguised as a Spanish countess. But Thomas' wife Helen (Ann Dvorak) is soon jealous of her and plans to unmask her when she discovers her true identity. Miss Lamour sings several south american songs like "Adiós mariquita linda","Noche de ronda" and "Buscándote" and she also sung Perfidia that was sadly deleted from the movie in the end. Stunning Edith Head fashions and luxurious scenography add a styling and fascinating touch to the movie. It is a pity it was not filmed in glorious technicolor. As a curiosity, actor Juan Torena (Del mismo barro) appears uncredited as master of ceremonies.
Review of Masquerade in Mexico
