Dutch navigator settles an old score against a despicable Spanish ruler and kidnaps his betrothed, a Mexican Contessa, en route to the wedding; he marries her aboard ship, but soon finds himself double-crossed by a former flame. Technicolor pirate production from RKO which is best when keeping its tone light and playful, worse while putting its characters on a soapbox and having them pontificate ponderously. With his mischievous grin, tousled locks and robust appearance, this is probably the sexiest Paul Henreid has ever been on the screen; flame-haired Maureen O'Hara looks sensational too, though her close-ups are obviously carefully posed and lighted for this effect. Still, interest wanes after the first-half, with rote swashbuckling action and a lack of attention paid to the supporting players. ** from ****
Review of The Spanish Main
