That Night in Rio

That Night in Rio

Year: 1941

Runtime: 91 mins

Language: English

Director: Irving Cummings

MusicRomanceComedy

Set against a vibrant Rio backdrop, the story follows a lively entertainer who assumes the identity of a wealthy aristocrat for a night of music and celebration. When the aristocrat’s wife urges him to maintain the charade, his deception spirals into comic complications and unforeseen entanglements.

That Night in Rio (1941) – Spoiler-Free Movie Summary & Plot Overview

Get a spoiler-free look at That Night in Rio (1941) with a clear plot overview that covers the setting, main characters, and story premise—without revealing key twists or the ending. Perfect for deciding if this film is your next watch.

In the dazzling heart of Rio de Janeiro, the night pulses with samba, neon lights, and the promise of escapism. At the bustling Casino Samba, a flamboyant show captivates a city eager for glamour, and an American entertainer named Larry Martin discovers that a single performance can blur the line between illusion and reality. His quick‑witted impersonation of a suave aristocrat ignites more than applause; it attracts the curiosity of the very elite whose personas he mimics.

The story pivots around the magnetic Baron Manuel Duarte, a charismatic figure whose reputation for romance and wealth makes him an ideal muse for Larry’s act. When the baron’s elegant wife, Baroness Cecilia Duarte, witnesses the spectacle, she becomes intrigued by the charm and artistry that swirl through the performance. Meanwhile, the vivacious Carmen, a celebrated singer and Larry’s own partner, watches the unfolding drama with a mix of admiration and unease, aware that the stage’s glitter can quickly turn into personal entanglement.

Against this backdrop of music, lavish parties, and Rio’s intoxicating rhythm, the film balances lighthearted farce with a subtle undercurrent of desire for acceptance and adventure. The tone is breezy and witty, inviting the audience to savor comedic misunderstandings while feeling the warm, festive energy of a city that never truly sleeps. As identities are swapped and flirtations blossom, the characters find themselves navigating the delicate dance between performance and truth, hinting at a night where every note played could change the melody of their lives.

Last Updated: December 05, 2025 at 10:03

Mobile App Preview

Coming soon on iOS and Android

The Plot Explained Mobile App

From blockbusters to hidden gems — dive into movie stories anytime, anywhere. Save your favorites, discover plots faster, and never miss a twist again.

Sign up to be the first to know when we launch. Your email stays private — always.

Explore Movie Threads

Discover curated groups of movies connected by mood, themes, and story style. Browse collections built around emotion, atmosphere, and narrative focus to easily find films that match what you feel like watching right now.

Musical Farce Movies with Mistaken Identity like That Night in Rio

Playful deceptions and romantic mix-ups set to a backdrop of music and glamour.If you liked the playful deception and glamorous setting of That Night in Rio, you'll enjoy these movies. This collection features fast-paced musical comedies and romantic farces built around cases of mistaken identity, where the chaos is all in good fun and leads to a happy ending.

playfulglamorousmischievousromanticcomediclightheartedfarce

Narrative Summary

The narrative typically begins with a simple deception—an entertainer posing as an aristocrat, for instance—that quickly spirals out of control. Complications arise from jealous lovers, financial schemers, or social climbers, leading to a series of near-misses and humorous confrontations before the ruse is inevitably uncovered and all is forgiven in a joyful finale.

Why These Movies?

These films are grouped by their shared commitment to lighthearted, fast-paced entertainment. They prioritize witty banter, musical spectacle, and romantic comedy over deep drama, creating a cohesive experience of escapist fun where the stakes are purely social and the mood is consistently buoyant.

Glamorous Escapist Romances in Exotic Settings like That Night in Rio

Sparkling romance and high-society intrigue set against a backdrop of vibrant, exotic cities.For viewers who loved the vibrant Rio de Janeiro backdrop and high-society glamour of That Night in Rio. This list features movies with a similar feel—romantic stories set in luxurious, exotic locales where the setting is as much a character as the leads, providing a delightful escape.

glamorousromanticescapistsophisticatedcharmingexoticplayful

Narrative Summary

These stories often revolve around characters navigating the worlds of high society, often with a fish-out-of-water element or a secret to maintain. The exotic setting provides a colorful stage for romantic pursuits, elegant parties, and light social commentary, with the plot serving primarily to showcase the glamorous atmosphere and charming characters.

Why These Movies?

This thread connects movies based on their shared atmospheric quality and escapist appeal. The combination of a romantic plot, a luxurious or exotic setting, and a light, breezy tone creates a specific, cohesive vibe that is perfect for viewers seeking stylish, undemanding entertainment.

Unlock the Full Story of That Night in Rio

Don't stop at just watching — explore That Night in Rio in full detail. From the complete plot summary and scene-by-scene timeline to character breakdowns, thematic analysis, and a deep dive into the ending — every page helps you truly understand what That Night in Rio is all about. Plus, discover what's next after the movie.

That Night in Rio Summary

Read a complete plot summary of That Night in Rio, including all key story points, character arcs, and turning points. This in-depth recap is ideal for understanding the narrative structure or reviewing what happened in the movie.

That Night in Rio Summary

That Night in Rio Timeline

Track the full timeline of That Night in Rio with every major event arranged chronologically. Perfect for decoding non-linear storytelling, flashbacks, or parallel narratives with a clear scene-by-scene breakdown.

That Night in Rio Timeline

Characters, Settings & Themes in That Night in Rio

Discover the characters, locations, and core themes that shape That Night in Rio. Get insights into symbolic elements, setting significance, and deeper narrative meaning — ideal for thematic analysis and movie breakdowns.

Characters, Settings & Themes in That Night in Rio

More About That Night in Rio

Visit What's After the Movie to explore more about That Night in Rio: box office results, cast and crew info, production details, post-credit scenes, and external links — all in one place for movie fans and researchers.

More About That Night in Rio

Similar Movies to That Night in Rio

Discover movies like That Night in Rio that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.