The Buccaneer (1938) The extravagant spectacle that is a Cecil B. De Mille film. It sets the bar for what we now refer to as a Blockbuster movie in this semi-fictional telling of the Privateer Jean Lafitte's participation in the Battle for New Orleans in the War of 1812.
Watching Anthony Quinn's 1958 remake last year, I had commented that there was a grandiose potential that he most likely was unable to get the funding for. Watching the original, I see that potential explored and realized with full glory under the maestro of grandeur, Cecil B. De Mille.
And in his grandeur, we have an epic Blockbuster with all that it entails. Lavish sets are used to their full effect by crafted camerawork - a plethora of top-notch actors, including Frederic March as Lafitte. As well as the scene-stealing adoration I had for Franciska Gaal (Gretchen) and Lafitte's Number Two Man, Dominique You (Akim Tamiroff). And notably, a delightful portrayal of First Lady Dolly Madison by Spring Byington.
As I remarked, this is a more realized production that includes the British's burning of the White House. De Mille delves into the many-faceted intrigues amongst the governing council of New Orleans, the British, and Lafitte, and the eventual direct, no-nonsense arrival of General Andrew Jackson (Hugh Sothern) and his fur-wearing aide, Peavey (Walter Brennan).
Filled with the epitome of bravado, daring, and excitement with a well-balanced story-telling that captures and endears you, I have found myself a new addition to my List of Popcorn-Devouring-Fun.