The Sea Hawk (1940)

While King Philip II (Montagu Love) of Spain plots to invade England by building a mighty armada, he sends an ambassador (Claude Rains) into duping Queen Elizabeth I (Flora Robson) into believing his intentions are peaceful. Meanwhile, the Queen allows a privateer (Errol Flynn) to undertake a plan to seize Spanish gold in Panama. Directed by Michael Curtiz (CASABLANCA), this thrilling swashbuckler is a high point in the genre. Although it shares the title of Rafael Sabatini's 1915 novel (filmed in 1924), the plot is entirely changed. Made during the war in Europe before America became involved, the film can be seen as an allegory of what was going on in Europe at the time with 16th century Spain representing Germany and serving as a warning to the U.S. about Hitler's intentions. But that aside, this a rousing sea adventure with action, intrigue and romance. While the movie would have benefited by being filmed in Technicolor, Sol Polito's crisp B&W cinematography is first rate and Erich Wolfgang Korngold's invigorating underscore aids the film immeasurably. With lovely Brenda Marshall, Henry Daniell, Gilbert Roland, Una O'Connor, Donald Crisp, Alan Hale, James Stephenson and William Lundigan.