1902. That's when the first color short was made. 1939. "Gone With The Wind" and "The Wizard Of Oz." Both in remarkable color.
I mention that because when I watched this 1940 film by cheapo Warner Brothers (who certainly made fine movies), I kept thinking what a shame it was that considering the budget film, WB didn't throw in a bit more money to make it in color. This films cries out for color!!!!! Of course, one of the reasons it's in black and white is that some scenes from the 1924 silent version were cut into the production. A few scenes in the print used on TCM have badly deteriorated.
Perhaps the best performance in the film is that of Flora Robson as Queen Elizabeth.
This is a rousing tale, although for me, there are a number of Flynn movies that I would place above it. Historically, apparently it's not very accurate. Perhaps Flynn's best acting in the tale is when he is a prisoner -- essentially a galley slave -- aboard a Spanish ship...Flynn not in control.
There are a number of fine character actors here, including Flynn's frequent sidekick Alan Hale, but, from my perspective, none of the roles stand out.
Worth seeing once, or maybe twice, but this title won't sit along side other Flynn movies on my DVD shelf.
I mention that because when I watched this 1940 film by cheapo Warner Brothers (who certainly made fine movies), I kept thinking what a shame it was that considering the budget film, WB didn't throw in a bit more money to make it in color. This films cries out for color!!!!! Of course, one of the reasons it's in black and white is that some scenes from the 1924 silent version were cut into the production. A few scenes in the print used on TCM have badly deteriorated.
Perhaps the best performance in the film is that of Flora Robson as Queen Elizabeth.
This is a rousing tale, although for me, there are a number of Flynn movies that I would place above it. Historically, apparently it's not very accurate. Perhaps Flynn's best acting in the tale is when he is a prisoner -- essentially a galley slave -- aboard a Spanish ship...Flynn not in control.
There are a number of fine character actors here, including Flynn's frequent sidekick Alan Hale, but, from my perspective, none of the roles stand out.
Worth seeing once, or maybe twice, but this title won't sit along side other Flynn movies on my DVD shelf.