Tropic of Desire

In the sultry atmosphere of Key West, a male hustler arrives, seeking more than just a fleeting escape from his past. This vibrant, sun-drenched locale serves as a backdrop for his alluring exploits as he navigates the uncertain waters of desire and ambition. Among the palm trees and warm breezes, he encounters a cast of unforgettable characters—local treasure hunters, opportunistic politicians, and enigmatic artists—each with their own hidden agendas and dark secrets. Their interactions spark an intense undercurrent of desire that threatens to upend the delicate balance of power within this eclectic community.

As the hustler becomes entrenched in Key West’s vibrant nightlife, he finds himself drawn into a web of political intrigue that complicates his interactions with the locals. The heat of the island fuels not only passion but also betrayal, as loyalties are tested against the backdrop of escalating tensions among rival factions. Amid clandestine meetings and whispered secrets, he uncovers a cloak-and-dagger world where romance and danger exist hand-in-hand. Each steamy rendezvous not only enhances his reputation but also entangles him deeper into the political machinations that shape the island's fate.

In this gripping tale of lust and survival, the hustler must sift through alliances and conflicts to discover his own desires amidst the chaos. As he moves further into the shadows of Key West, he is faced with decisions that could redefine his identity and future. 'Tropic of Desire' is not just a story of physical connections; it is a vivid portrayal of how the intertwining lives of those in a small community can lead to unexpected revelations about love, power, and the cost of ambition.

Full Cast of Tropic of Desire

Eartha Kitt delivered a mesmerizing performance as Lola in the 1957 film "Tropic of Desire," a role that showcased her undeniable allure and dramatic depth. As Lola, a sensual and enigmatic nightclub singer entangled in a web of intrigue on a tropical island, Kitt brought a smoldering intensity to the screen. Her rendition of the film's title song became an iconic moment, with her signature purr and provocative stage presence captivating audiences. Kitt's portrayal was a complex blend of vulnerability and strength, as she navigated the treacherous waters of love, jealousy, and betrayal. Her performance was not just a highlight of her acting career but also a testament to her abilities as a singer and a performer, solidifying her status as a multi-faceted star capable of bringing depth and nuance to even the most sultry and exotic of roles.

Pat Carroll delivered a memorable performance as Tangerine in the 1979 film "Tropic of Desire," a role that showcased her versatility and charisma on screen. As Tangerine, Carroll brought to life a character that was both sultry and commanding, with a presence that was hard to ignore. Her portrayal of the madam of a notorious New Orleans bordello was laced with a distinctive blend of humor and authority, as she managed to be both a mother figure and a stern taskmistress to her girls. Carroll's performance was highlighted by her sharp wit and impeccable timing, which allowed Tangerine to navigate the film's tension-filled moments with a air of confidence and streetwise sophistication. Despite the film's exploitative nature, Carroll's talent shone through, providing the audience with a nuanced depiction that transcended the typical archetypes of the era. Her ability to bring depth to Tangerine, infusing the character with a mix of vulnerability and strength, left an indelible mark on the film and offered a glimpse into the range that she would continue to display throughout her illustrious career.

Tom Ewell delivered a memorable performance as Hadley Crabtree in the 1960 adventure film "Tropic of Desire," directed by Byron Haskin. Ewell, known for his everyman persona and neurotic charm, brought a sense of grounded authenticity to the role of Crabtree, a down-on-his-luck American searching for a fresh start in the exotic locale of Singapore. His portrayal of Crabtree as a man caught between the allure of a seductive woman, played by Virginia Mayo, and the dangers of the foreign underworld, showcased Ewell's ability to balance dramatic tension with a subtle sense of humor. Ewell's Crabtree is a man whose vulnerability and moral ambiguity make him both relatable and compelling to watch, as he navigates the treacherous waters of desire and deception. His performance is a highlight of the film, providing a solid foundation for the unfolding drama and adding depth to what might have otherwise been a standard film noir character.

Crew of Tropic of Desire