The word "classic" is tossed around quite a bit these days.  Just because a story is old doesn't make it a classic.  To be a real classic a story has to have certain elements.  Well, I am here to tell you that this story has elements that are indeed the MOST classic.  The wrongly convicted and imprisoned man, the stolen sweetheart, the escape, the treasure and most of all, The Revenge.  I read the book thirty years ago and loved it then, therefore I was anxious to see if this movie version would also be a "classic".

A very few minutes into this picture I knew that Kevin Reynolds had directed a winner.  He shot it in Ireland and Malta for extremely dramatic effect and cast it with actors that melted into the roles.  Jim Caviezel (ca-vee-zell) (Angel Eyes...2001) was a sympathetic hero who is wronged and seeks vengeance.  The "wrong" is done by his childhood friend who is a real bastard with no conscience played by Guy Pearce (L.A.Confidential...1997).  A standout supporting role that enhanced the picture was Luis (Pachanga) Guzman (Carlito's Way...1993) as a ruthless pirate turned loyal friend/protector.I was VERY impressed with this picture.  The acting, scenery and story were great.  And even though I had read the book and was familiar with the story, I was constantly in suspense and waiting for the payoff.  I knew what was coming and still enjoyed it when it got there.  For the record, this IS a "Classic".

"I'm a Count, not a Saint!"

RECOMMENDATION:  Great picture!  The whole theatre clapped when it was over.  Spend the money!

TWO ERROL FLYNN STYLED, SWASHBUCKLING THUMBS UP!!!

Movie Review © 2002 Terry Anderson