Comedy
United States of America
Bananas is a 1971 comedy film directed by Woody Allen, who also wrote and starred in the film. The story follows Fielding Mellish, a neurotic and clumsy New Yorker who works as a product tester for a health food store. After being dumped by his girlfriend Nancy, who has become involved in left-wing politics, Fielding decides to follow her to the small fictional Latin American country of San Marcos.
Upon arriving, Fielding becomes embroiled in the country's revolution against its corrupt government led by General Vargas. He unintentionally becomes the leader of the rebellion, despite his lack of knowledge or experience in politics and warfare. Along the way, Fielding falls in love with Nancy's friend, Nancy’s friend Yolanda, who is also a political activist.
The film is a satirical take on the revolutionary politics and the American involvement in Latin America. Bananas is known for its absurd humor, with Fielding’s antics landing him in various absurd situations such as being put on trial for various offenses such as being "the leading porno movie maker in Sweden".
The film also features notable performances by Louise Lasser, who plays Nancy, and Carlos Montalbán, who portrays General Vargas. Bananas was a commercial success and received positive reviews, cementing Woody Allen's reputation as a filmmaker and actor.
