Review

  • From an objective film perspective, this is a good piece of moviemaking from several different angles.

    Directed by the legendary Allan Dwan who was a master of silent film and continued directing through the 50s.

    Firstly, it is a visually striking work of technicolor, the cinematographer John Alton (An American in Paris) does some really great work here. The Burmese castle scenes, wildlife and outdoor scenes, costumes, sets and art direction are all top-notch.

    As a big fan of Stanwyck, this movie is monumental as it is not only one of her last film roles, but one of the few movies she ever appeared in color, showing her red hair. She gives one of her most sensitive portrayals here while also displaying her usual tough girl image.

    A lot to like here, the action is good and steady, the only two problems are the hard-to-follow storyline and the ending.

    All in all, I think this is a near-great film.