The movie, Captain Blood, is Errol Flynn’s first starring role. He does not disappoint. He shows in this film, that he has a natural talent for acting. It is the role that makes him into Hollywood’s favorite swashbuckler. He wasn’t the first, to star in these types of roles. He did give them his own inimitable style. He was paired with Olivia de Havilland for the first time. She was also in her first starring role. She also behaves like a veteran actress. It is the directing skill of Michael Curtiz, that helps them to not be camera shy.
Peter Blood is an Irish doctor, living in England. His life is very good. That is until he treats a wounded rebel, and King James men find the doctor and his patient. The doctor and all the rebels are tried and sentenced to death. It is pointed out to the court, that executions have become unpopular. The judge decides the best punishment, is servitude in Port Royal Jamaica.This proves correct. The rebels’ service is to a wealthy, despicable man, Colonel Bishop, (Lionel Atwill). He believes long hard work days, and deplorable conditions, will break their spirit. He is wrong; it strengthens their will. Peter Blood, gets a reprieve from this horrible life. He treats the governor of Jamaica for gout. He is rewarded with nice living conditions, and a position as the governor’s personal physician. Flynn’s character, also gains the attention of Arabella Bishop, the colonel’s niece, played by Ms. de Havilland. Her beauty is shown effectively in closeups by Curtiz.
Peter Blood despite his position and Arabella’s affection for him, can’t settle for the ill treatment of the workers. He voices his opinion to Colonel Bishop, in stern words. Bishop is fed up with his insolence. He orders him flogged. This harsh punishment is interrupted by an attack by the Spanish fleet. The confusion of the attack, allows the prisoners to escape. They find a Spanish ship, and take it. Peter Blood decides there is no turning back. He becomes Captain Blood; notorious captain of pirates. Michael Curtiz creates an effective montage showing Blood’s ascendency. Peter Blood is a softer, gentler pirate, creating a charter for him and his crew. This includes division of the spoils and the treatment of prisoners.
Blood and his crew are relaxing in a tavern one day. It is here that they find Lavasseur, a French pirate, played by Basil Rathbone. His French accent, won’t make anyone mistake him for Charles Boyer. He proposes a partnership that Blood accepts. Rathbone’s character isn’t as noble as Captain Blood. They butt heads over prisoners, one of whom is Arabella. There is a duel which Blood wins. He takes Arabella back to Port Royal. It is under siege, this time by the French. Blood is asked to take a commission in the king’s navy. He initially refuses, until he finds out James has been ousted. He helps drive out the French, and is given the royal governorship and gains Arabella’s love.
Captain Blood is well written, with Flynn giving passionate speeches. It is based on the novel by Rafael Sabatini. The screenplay was written by Casey Robinson. The musical score was written by Erich Wolfgang Korngold. It is essential to this film, allowing the movie to capture the feel of adventure. Although a renowned musician, he is famous for these films. He was an influence on many film composers. This film shows off Errol Flynn’s acting ability, which extended well beyond action adventure movies. He displayed his range in later films, such as They Died With Their Boots On and Gentleman Jim. Captain Blood is an extremely good start, for an actor, who was one of the top stars of his era.