Review of Siren of the Tropics

If you watch Siren of the Tropics with the mindset of the 21st century, try not to pay too much attention to the melodramatic plot about a tycoon trying to keep his daughter from marrying someone he doesn't think worthy of her. This seems to be an excuse to send the daughter's suitor to a faraway jungle to search for jewelry in order to prove the daughter's worth. It is here that we meet Papitou, Josephine Baker's character, who falls for the suitor after saving his life. Papitou follows the suitor back to France and is spotted by some theatrical agents dancing with orphan children. They decide to form a show with her but she won't perform unless she is promised to see the suitor. They call the suitor's potential father-in-law to arrange a meeting. Since the potential father-in-law knows what would happen if his daughter sees Papitou embrace her husband-to-be, he agrees. If you've seen some dramas involving mixed races made before the 1970s, you may be surprised by what happens here. The main reason to see this is to marvel at Ms. Baker's Charleston dance at the end. If you're interested in seeing early African-American film performances, especially Josephine Baker's, this one is definitely worth seeking out!