The Black Pearl is a colorful coming-of-age adventure for young adults, based on the novel by Scott O'Dell (author of Island of the Blue Dolphins). Set in Baja, California, a village teen, Ramon, wants to retrieve a legendary black pearl from an island seemingly guarded by natural forces which will kill anyone trying to take the pearl. The film's locations are lovely village life seems tranquil and inviting. The special effects of the giant manta ray are what they are (check out the big bulging eyes), but they were quite typical for a film made in the mid-late 1970's. The film is well-directed, with excitement and a sense of wonder. Especially impressive is the sequence in which Ramon goes underwater while holding his breath to retrieve the pearl in a sea cave. Mario Custodio gives an energetic, earnest performance as young Ramon, who must develop survival skills and go on his own quest. It's a shame that this film has never been released on dvd or blu. Perhaps it will be remade, but re-releasing this exciting film would be better.
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