Review of The Poppy Is Also a Flower

Curiosity is defiantly there for this all-star fiasco that means well but pushes its message so much into your face that it feels like bees attacking. The narration at the beginning indicates that this was promoted by the United Nations which gives a hint of its political backing. It would be great if the film took its mission seriously, but when leading characters spend time playing paper/rock/scissors, it becomes difficult to believe in the message. Everything starts off on the right mark with the introduction of the narcotics agents making their infiltration on the opium smugglers, and with major stars like Yul Brynnur and Omar Sharif, attention is made. Some stars are on and off so fast that their cameos are forgotten by the time the movie is over. Somewhat memorable, but probably not for the right reason is the lengthy cameo by Rita Hayworth as an obviously addicted mob wife and Angie Dickinson as a double agent. Toss in a few songs including "Lemon Tree" and "La Bamba" for a distraction from the silliness (as well as cameos from a few musical oddities) and a plot that goes all over the map, literally.