Summary
- “The Night of the Iguana” was a movie filmed in Puerto Vallarta in 1963, starring Richard Burton, Ava Gardner, Deborah Kerr, and Sue Lyon.
- The movie was filmed in a picturesque cove called Mismaloya, just south of Puerto Vallarta.
- To celebrate the 50th anniversary of the film’s release, the Centro Universitario de la Costa in Puerto Vallarta organized a series of conferences, lectures, film screenings, and exhibitions related to the filming of the movie.
- The impact of “The Night of the Iguana” on Puerto Vallarta is still celebrated through various events and tributes.
- Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor, who were in a romantic relationship at the time, spent a significant amount of time in Puerto Vallarta during the filming.
- Puerto Vallarta continues to be associated with “The Night of the Iguana” and its impact on the city’s transformation.
Today 50 years ago, September 22rd, 1963, Richard Burton and Elizabeth Taylor arrive in Mexico City from Toronto, on their way to Puerto Vallarta, where Burton was to stay three months, as the star in John Huston’s “The Night of the Iguana“.
They were mobbed by 500 teenagers at Mexico City Airport, Burton fought his way through the crowd protecting Liz Taylor, who lost a shoe and her purse and barely escaped in one piece (see photo). They were accompanied by 7-year-old Lisa Todd, Mrs. Taylor’s daughter. Her two sons were at a boarding school in California, her adoptive daughter Maria was in London.
Elizabeth Taylor had put her film career on hold to relax a bit after the exhausting experience of “Cleopatra” and felt very proud in seeing Richard’s career start to take off. He was to star in a challenging role alongside middle-aged and beautiful Ava Gardner, Deborah Kerr, a famous and refined English actress and the young and dangerous Sue Lyon just after her debut on Stanley Kubrick’s “Lolita”.
Many say she came along and stayed glued to Burton’s side to make sure he behaved among these three unique types of beauties all wrapped up in the hot tropical lush primeval atmosphere of Puerto Vallarta.
Cast (L to R): Sue Lyon, Richard Burton, Deborah Kerr and Ava Gardner
The press that arrived wanted fireworks, wanted scandal (though the relationship of the two already and still married Taylor and Burton already was one), they also sensed there might be competition between Liz and Ava, that their love affair might founder because of her.
Of course, Elizabeth was there close, especially so during the steamy scenes between Richard and Ava, just outside the shot, dressed at her best, in tight blouses, pants and, of course, her eye-catching jewelry.
Richard, Elizabeth and actor Stanley Baker enjoying Vallarta
They maybe thought that a trip to Mexico in a small remote fishing village surrounded by green lush mountains and deserted beaches might keep them away from the paparazzi and the curious prying eyes… they were disappointed when they arrived in the swarming mob of Mexico City.
Emilio “El Indio” Fernández
Elizabeth panicked, even more so when she saw a man in a sombrero with pistols on his hips trying to usher them through the crowd. Richard is reported, before realizing who he was, to have yelled: “Get this maniac off the plane or I’ll kill him”. It was actually a very famous local actor, filmmaker called Emilio “El Indio” Fernández, whom John Huston had requested escort them in Mexico.
Liz & Dick enjoying the waves in Puerto Vallarta
So, 50 years ago today, was an important day for Puerto Vallarta, a small sleepy fishing village, only known to the locals, that received visitors from the Sierra, Guadalajara and a few from Mexico City jumped into the limelight as all the top Hollywood stars and the press all converged there. Nothing would ever be the same, neither for the stars nor for the town.
Author: M. A. Gallardo
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FAQ
- What is the safest part of Puerto Vallarta to stay in?
The Marina and the Romantic Zone are considered some of the safest areas to stay in Puerto Vallarta. Both areas are popular among tourists and offer a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and attractions. The Marina is known for its upscale atmosphere, luxury resorts, and high-end shops and restaurants. It has a very secure, controlled environment with 24/7 security personnel. The Romantic Zone offers a more authentic Mexican experience with cobblestone streets, colorful colonial buildings, and a vibrant mix of galleries, cafes, and bars. As a central tourist area, it also has a strong police presence and is considered very safe.
- Where do locals go in Puerto Vallarta?
Locals in Puerto Vallarta enjoy spending time at the city’s beautiful beaches, scenic parks, and lively local markets. Popular beach spots include Playa de Oro, Playa Las Animas, and Playa Camarones for their soft sand and calm waters. Many locals visit the Vallarta Botanical Gardens to enjoy the lush vegetation and hiking trails. They also frequent authentic local food venues like Birrieria las 3 Regiones taco stand, cafes like Cafecito Vallarta, and neighborhood bars like La Cerveceria Union. The downtown Lazaro Cardenas market is a favorite for produce, spices, crafts.
- Is Downtown Puerto Vallarta nice?
Yes, downtown Puerto Vallarta is an exceptionally nice and popular area, celebrated for its vibrant mix of historic Mexican charm and a lively beach town atmosphere. It features a picturesque historic center with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and the iconic Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe church. The downtown seamlessly blends into the scenic Malecón, a beautiful oceanfront boardwalk lined with fascinating sculptures, shops, and restaurants, making it perfect for strolling and enjoying the stunning ocean views.
The area offers an excellent variety of dining, from upscale restaurants to authentic street food, along with fantastic shopping in boutiques and art galleries. Adjacent to the main center is the popular Zona Romántica (Romantic Zone), known for its trendy vibe and energetic nightlife. The entire downtown is considered safe and is very walkable, allowing visitors to easily explore its captivating blend of culture, cuisine, and coastal beauty on foot.
Tip: For an unforgettable experience, head down to the Malecón or any beachfront spot about 30 minutes before the scheduled sundown to watch the spectacular sunset over the bay.
- What is considered old town in Puerto Vallarta?
Old Town, also known as the Romantic Zone or Zona Romántica, is considered the historic heart of Puerto Vallarta. It is characterized by its picturesque cobblestone streets, classic whitewashed buildings, red-tiled roofs, and a lively mix of shops, galleries, restaurants and bars. Nestled between the Sierra Madre mountains and Banderas Bay, Old Town has a traditional Mexican village charm with its colonial architecture and slower pace compared to the rest of Puerto Vallarta. Its romantic ambience comes from the area’s natural beauty, outdoor cafes, and charming boutique hotels. Old Town offers visitors a taste of an authentic Mexican neighborhood.
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