Bananas

Main Plot

Bananas follows the story of Fielding Mellish, a neurotic and hapless New Yorker who becomes infatuated with a revolutionary activist named Nancy. In an attempt to win her affection, he travels to the fictional South American country of San Marcos, which is embroiled in political turmoil. Fielding inadvertently becomes involved in a coup and is thrust into the chaos of the revolution. As he navigates the absurdities of the political landscape, he finds himself at the center of a comedic struggle for power, encountering a series of eccentric characters and bizarre situations. The film blends satire and slapstick humor, exploring themes of love, identity, and the often ridiculous nature of political movements. Ultimately, Fielding's journey leads him to question his own beliefs and motivations amidst the backdrop of a tumultuous and farcical revolution.

Characters

• Fielding Mellish, a neurotic New Yorker, becomes unwittingly involved in a Latin American revolution, eventually becoming the country's leader in a comedic twist of fate.
• Louise Lasser plays Nancy, Fielding Mellish's ex-girlfriend, whose political activism indirectly leads him to become involved in a Latin American revolution.
• Carlos Montalbán played General Emilio M. Vargas, a dictator whose regime is overthrown, leading to a series of comedic political events in the film.

Ending Explained

In the ending of Bananas, the protagonist, Fielding Mellish, finds himself embroiled in a chaotic revolution in the fictional Latin American country of San Marcos. After a series of misadventures, including his unexpected rise to power, Fielding becomes disillusioned with the political turmoil and the absurdity surrounding him. The climax occurs when he is captured by the opposing forces, leading to a comical trial where he is sentenced to death. However, the resolution comes when Fielding's girlfriend, who has been a constant presence throughout his journey, intervenes. She manages to convince the revolutionaries to spare his life, highlighting the film's theme of love and personal connection amidst chaos. The film concludes with Fielding escaping San Marcos and returning to New York, where he reflects on his experiences. The absurdity of his journey serves as a satire of political movements and the nature of human relationships. Ultimately, the ending resolves the main conflict by emphasizing the futility of political aspirations and the importance of personal connections, encapsulating the film's comedic yet poignant exploration of life’s absurdities. Fielding’s return to his mundane life underscores the contrast between the chaos of revolution and the simplicity of everyday existence.