Holiday in Havana Poster

Holiday in Havana 1949

★ 5.04 votes73 min📅 1949-10-01

"A RUNAWAY RHUMBA ROMANCE rumbling with riotous rhythm!"

Set against the sun-drenched streets of Havana, *Holiday in Havana* (1949) follows Carlos Estrada, a determined busboy with big dreams of leading his own band.

Director: Jean Yarbrough

Cast

Desi Arnaz
Desi Arnaz
Carlos Estrada
Mary Hatcher
Mary Hatcher
Lolita Valdez - aka Dolores
Ann Doran
Ann Doran
Marge Henley
Steven Geray
Steven Geray
Lopez
Minerva Urecal
Minerva Urecal
Mama Valdez
Sig Arno
Sig Arno
Pepe
Ray Walker
Ray Walker
Sam Keegan
Nacho Galindo
Nacho Galindo
Police Sergeant

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Holiday in Havana (1949) about?

The film centers on Carlos Estrada, a determined hotel busboy who dreams of leading his own band. To prove his talent, he enters a rhumba contest in Havana and sets out to convince Lolita Valdez, a fiery singer, to join him. Along the way, comedic twists and romantic sparks unfold in this lively musical comedy.

Who directed Holiday in Havana?

Holiday in Havana was directed by Jean Yarbrough, known for his work in classic Hollywood comedies and musical films.

Who stars in Holiday in Havana?

The film stars Desi Arnaz, Mary Hatcher, Ann Doran, Steven Geray, and Minerva Urecal in key roles that drive the story's blend of comedy and music.

Is Holiday in Havana (1949) worth watching?

As a classic comedy-musical from the late 1940s, *Holiday in Havana* offers nostalgic charm, lively musical numbers, and Desi Arnaz's magnetic performance. Fans of vintage Hollywood musicals will find plenty to enjoy, even if the pacing feels dated by modern standards.

How long is Holiday in Havana?

Holiday in Havana runs for 73 minutes, making it a concise and entertaining escape into classic film magic.

About Holiday in Havana (1949) — Desi Arnaz's Rhythmic Romantic Comedy in Classic Hollywood

Set against the sun-drenched streets of Havana, *Holiday in Havana* (1949) follows Carlos Estrada, a determined busboy with big dreams of leading his own band. Desperate to convince fiery singer Lolita Valdez to join him in a high-stakes rhumba contest, Carlos navigates a whirlwind of comedic mishaps and musical passion. Directed by Jean Yarbrough, this charming comedy-musical blends infectious Latin rhythms with classic Hollywood flair, creating a vibrant escape where romance and rivalry dance in perfect harmony. With its lively atmosphere and playful charm, the film captures the irresistible energy of mid-century musical comedies.

Starring Desi Arnaz in a role that showcases his signature charisma, alongside Mary Hatcher and Ann Doran, the film delivers a delightful mix of humor and toe-tapping melodies. *Holiday in Havana* isn't just a celebration of music—it's a nostalgic snapshot of an era when films invited audiences to dream of faraway places and unforgettable beats.