Bon Voyage!

“Bon Voyage!” is a 1962 comedy film directed by James Neilson and produced by Walt Disney Productions. It is based on a book of the same name by Joseph Hayes. The movie is set in the early 1960s and follows the misadventures of the Willard family from the United States as they embark on a European vacation.

The story begins with the Willard family, which includes the headstrong father, Harry Willard (played by Fred MacMurray); his wife, Katie Willard (played by Jane Wyman); and their three children: Elliot (played by Michael Callan), Skipper (played by Kevin Corcoran), and Amy (played by Deborah Walley). The family’s vacation plans are disrupted when Elliot gets involved with a group of young artists, leading to a series of comedic mishaps and misunderstandings.

As the family travels through France, they encounter a spy plot, mistaken identities, and various complications that result in a mix of laughter and chaos. While trying to handle the unforeseen situations, the family members learn to appreciate each other and work together to overcome the challenges they face.

“Bon Voyage!” was one of the last films for the veteran Disney producer, Bill Walsh, and it has the typical Disney humor and family-friendly elements. It offers a lighthearted and entertaining look at the adventures of an American family abroad. The film received generally positive reviews and is remembered as a charming and enjoyable comedy with a touch of Disney magic.

Fun Facts

• One interesting fact is that the film was partially shot on location in Europe, giving it an authentic feel of the various European countries the family visits during their journey.