Undoubtedly one of the most colorful films you'll likely ever see, "The Black Swan" deservedly received an Oscar for Best Cinematography. It's apparent in virtually every scene, from the stunning costumes to all the high seas adventure. Even the language is a delight; I always get a kick out of the dialog of an earlier era - "There's nothing like the stretch of a rack to raise a thirst"!
Of course, Tyrone Power is right in his element here as Captain Jamie Waring, attempting to rid the Spanish Main of his chief adversary, Captain Billy Leech. I have to admit, I couldn't find George Sanders underneath that overgrown red beard, and had to rely on the credits rolling to point him out. Laird Cregar fits right in as the pirate Governor, Captain Henry Morgan. Funny how a popular print ad for Jamaican rum makes his appearance that much more enjoyable. Would that aristocratic ladies make as lovely a pirate wench as Maureen O'Hara, her bickering with Power's character was a highlight of the film. Although Captain Waring's behavior in a number of scenes with Lady Margaret was downright crude, even with the best of faces put on it.
Say, here's something I didn't quite understand. Bloodthirsty, marauding pirates on the High Seas getting together to sign 'Article's' of conduct and agreement on splitting the loot of hijacked treasure ships! I didn't think pirates got that formal.
Anyway, "The Black Swan" has plenty to keep your attention, right up to that finale sword fight between Captains Jamie and Billy Leech. There's no way anyone could move their arms that fast, but the sped up action looks pretty cool. Turns out Waring wins his lady fair as well after taking a sword to the ribs. I wonder how Ingram took the news.
Of course, Tyrone Power is right in his element here as Captain Jamie Waring, attempting to rid the Spanish Main of his chief adversary, Captain Billy Leech. I have to admit, I couldn't find George Sanders underneath that overgrown red beard, and had to rely on the credits rolling to point him out. Laird Cregar fits right in as the pirate Governor, Captain Henry Morgan. Funny how a popular print ad for Jamaican rum makes his appearance that much more enjoyable. Would that aristocratic ladies make as lovely a pirate wench as Maureen O'Hara, her bickering with Power's character was a highlight of the film. Although Captain Waring's behavior in a number of scenes with Lady Margaret was downright crude, even with the best of faces put on it.
Say, here's something I didn't quite understand. Bloodthirsty, marauding pirates on the High Seas getting together to sign 'Article's' of conduct and agreement on splitting the loot of hijacked treasure ships! I didn't think pirates got that formal.
Anyway, "The Black Swan" has plenty to keep your attention, right up to that finale sword fight between Captains Jamie and Billy Leech. There's no way anyone could move their arms that fast, but the sped up action looks pretty cool. Turns out Waring wins his lady fair as well after taking a sword to the ribs. I wonder how Ingram took the news.