Not an especially interesting story or great directing, but ... some superb acting, and it's not Errol Flynn.
Here's my breakdown:
STORY: The story is quite dry and lacks much imagination, but there's just enough creativity to keep the story breathing.
If you want Flynn and pirates then watch "Captain Blood" (1935) as it's a far, far better story (and film).
ACTING: The acting here is acceptable, but one actor rises way above everyone else, and that's Flora Robson who plays the queen of England. Her character immersion, along with authentic strength and charm set her far apart such that she was her own story. I wish more actors would demonstrate that level of commitment and skill.
ENTERTAINMENT: Low value
TEMPO: OK ... but often very dull and predictable
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Poor sets which ruins much of the film
MUSIC / SOUND: Boring
DIRECTING / WRITING: Director: Curtiz had a serious portfolio with 178 films. Wow. Nonetheless, I thought the sets here were horrible and the flow clunky. Blame the writers?
Writers: Between Koch and Miller's lengthy resumes I only find a few films that I'd recommend, e.g.
"Here Comes Mr. Jordan" (1941). Otherwise I thought the writing here was mediocre.
Is it a good film? No
Should you watch this once? No
Rating: 5.0 (all for her majesty)
Here's my breakdown:
STORY: The story is quite dry and lacks much imagination, but there's just enough creativity to keep the story breathing.
If you want Flynn and pirates then watch "Captain Blood" (1935) as it's a far, far better story (and film).
ACTING: The acting here is acceptable, but one actor rises way above everyone else, and that's Flora Robson who plays the queen of England. Her character immersion, along with authentic strength and charm set her far apart such that she was her own story. I wish more actors would demonstrate that level of commitment and skill.
ENTERTAINMENT: Low value
TEMPO: OK ... but often very dull and predictable
CINEMATOGRAPHY: Poor sets which ruins much of the film
MUSIC / SOUND: Boring
DIRECTING / WRITING: Director: Curtiz had a serious portfolio with 178 films. Wow. Nonetheless, I thought the sets here were horrible and the flow clunky. Blame the writers?
Writers: Between Koch and Miller's lengthy resumes I only find a few films that I'd recommend, e.g.
"Here Comes Mr. Jordan" (1941). Otherwise I thought the writing here was mediocre.
Is it a good film? No
Should you watch this once? No
Rating: 5.0 (all for her majesty)