In 1959, two men arrive by plane from Honolulu to visit Richard ‘King’ Howland (Charlton Heston). After repeatedly asking him the same question, they are seeking a final answer this time- will King accept the honour of running for senator for Hawaii? Once again, Richard postpones his answer and asks them to wait another day. After the pair leave, Richard’s sister-in-law expresses her opinion that it would be a beautiful honour, but Richard is hesitant and concerned about how it could affect his younger sister, Sloane (Yvette Mimieux). Sloane is currently on her way home from California on a cruise ship, and she is keeping a secret from Richard: she has fallen in love with a Hawaiian named Paul (James Darren).
As Sloane returns home and is reunited with Richard, they are overjoyed. Although it becomes clear that Paul and Richard have a past together and already know each other, Richard remains unaware of Sloane’s newfound relationship. Paul asks Richard if they can chat the next day, and later that same evening, Richard finally asks Sloane for her opinion about whether he should run for Senator. Sloane expresses her excitement and support, and Richard makes a phone call to authorise an official announcement.
With significant changes on the horizon, Sloane feels that it’s time to reveal the secret romance that has been happening between her and Paul. In response, Richard lashes out and is unimpressed, bringing up issues such as differences in social class, race mixing, and the topic of marriage. The conversation ends poorly, with Sloane promising to stand by Paul’s side regardless of Richard’s thoughts. However, while Richard disapproves of Sloane’s new love, he keeps a secret of his own: Richard is having a secret love affair with a Hawaiian woman, Mai (France Nuyen). Despite this, he detests the idea of Paul joining his family and inheriting their wealth. Richard’s world is becoming tragic and heartbreaking as he deals with all the important relationships around him.
For those who may not know, Diamond Head is a movie that was released in 1962 and is a drama with some romantic moments. The director of the film is Guy Green, and it is based on a novel by Peter Gilman. While the movie introduces us to various characters from different backgrounds, social classes, and positions, Richard is the most dominant character, making decisions about how the lives of those connected to him should be handled. While Richard is demanding, bossy and protective of his family’s wealth, he is also hypocritical.
As the plot unfolds, more problems and tragedies occur. The turning points in the story, including character deaths, were unexpected and bold. Charlton Heston’s portrayal of Richard was excellent. His character was a strange mix of a harsh villain who always managed to scheme his way to cut corners and get what he wants and someone more charming. Naturally, he was also highly selfish and, at various times, cruel to others. I initially enjoyed the movie’s pace but felt it slowed down significantly as the story progressed to its climax and finale. The film’s ending was ultimately disappointing, lacking a proper conclusion and felt disjointed.
Overall, Diamond Head is a film that stands out due to its drama, tragedy and heartfelt romances. The introduction of several characters in the first act was engaging, and I was invested in knowing their outcomes. While the film had some romantic moments, it ultimately became a sad tragedy, which was unexpected but bold. Charlton Heston gives an outstanding performance, playing a selfish, harsh, demanding, and hypocritical character. The story was enjoyable, but there was a noticeable shift in pace during the third act and finale. Nevertheless, it’s still more entertaining and satisfying than I anticipated.
7.0/10
17th March 2024
Written by Peter Walkden
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