No folks, I mean it. This has to be the best pirate movie ever made. It has pace, wit, style and a winning cast that are obviously enjoying every minute of it. There are no supernatural beings, mythical sea monsters or CG-laden blue-screen pirates... just people. And this is what a pirate movie should be In my opinion. Hidden treasure, romance, blue skies, gruesome antics and scurvied dogs 'aharrrring'.
Factually, there were women pirates (Ann Bonney, Mary Reid) and although this is far from being a history lesson, its good to know that it stays within the 'possible'.
From Patrick Malahide's asides to his lieutenant'Trotter' to Frank Langella's evil grimaces as 'Dawg' this film never ceases to please. I own posters made for the market scene, an extra's costume, a continuity script and a prop master's plan for the poop deck of the Morning Star... in other words I simply love this movie.
Famous for being the film that bankrupted its production company (Carolco) Cutthroat Island was directed by Renny Harlin and starred Geena Davis, Matthew Modine, Frank Langella, Maury Chaykin and Patrick Malahide. It easily beats Pirates of the Caribbean and was made many years before it. If you have only seen the Johnny Depp movie, buy a copy of Cutthroat Island and you'll be blown out of the water...
Finally... take a look at the stunt where Morgan comes gambolling through an upper storey window straight into the driving seat of fast-moving coach and horses... now how did they do that!
