The Crimson Pirate (DVD)

Burt Lancaster plays the title role in this caution-to-the-winds adventure comedy filled to the top-mast with devilish derring-do and hearty goofiness. Possessed of keen acrobatic agility from his pre-acting circus days, Lancaster embodies all The Crimson Pirate is about: Escapist fare that's contagious fun. Zestily directed by Robert Siodmak (the suspense master of The Spiral Staircase and The Killers in a robust change of pace), The Crimson Pirate also boasts the treasures of lovely Eva Bartok, lively Nick Cravat (Lancasters boyhood chum and ex-circus partner), gorgeous location filming and a playful William Alwyn score. It's nothing less than an edge-of-your-seat joyride. Heave-to, mates!

Starring: Burt Lancaster, Nick Cravat, Eva Bartok, Torin Thatcher, James Hayter, Leslie Bradley, Margot Grahame, Noel Purcell, Frederick Leister, Eliot Makeham, Frank Pettingell, Dana Wynter, Christopher Lee, Ewan Roberts, John Chandos, Derek Tansley, Charles Farrell