Charlton Heston in Soapy Social Epic "Diamond Head"

Though "Diamond Head" was dubbed a sprawling soap opera since its release 60 years ago, the Hawaiian epic deserves credit for dealing with social issues in an adult way. The Charlton Heston-led cast, which includes a spirited Yvette Mimieux, are all fine, though George Chakiris, James Darren, and Aline MacMahon would not be allowed to go Hawaiian today. My look at this flawed but worthwhile "Diamond Head" here:

Who played the part of the 300lbs mahu drag queen Diamond?

A shockingly inept portrayal, but fascinating because it displays Heston's worst characteristics (except the one about trolling for teen-boy ass with his stand-in and roughly disposing of them when they were done fucking the youth out of them.) in a lurid, sickeningly racist way.

Poor Hawaii.

This movie is my secret shame. I absolutely love it.

George Chakoris and James Darren portraying Hawaiians! Incestuous vibe between Charlton and Yvette!