The Scarlet Blade (1963)

The Scarlet Blade Poster

A 1964 British action adventure film from Hammer studios. The Scarlet Blade is set during the english civil war. A cruel Roundhead Colonel is on the trail of royalist sympathisers, but unaware of his daughters royalist sympathies. When she falls into a love triangle with Cavalier Edward Beverly and Roundhead officer Captain Sylvester the stage is set for double crossing and derring do.

Movie Overview
"The Scarlet Blade" is a rivacious 1963 British adventure movie by famous Hammer Movie Productions, directed by John Gilling. Set versus the backdrop of the English Civil War in the 17th century, the movie plots a battle between the royalists, primarily represented by Oliver Cromwell's males and the cavaliers, who are loyal to King Charles I.

Plot
The story begins with the defeat of the royalists where Colonel Judd (Lionel Jeffries), an ardent Cromwell advocate, triumphantly takes control of a south-west England town, seizing control from the cavaliers. Nevertheless, in the midst of this mayhem, one cavalier - Edward Beverley (Jack Hedley), escapes. His prompt flight is made possible by Clare Judd (June Thorburn), the child of Colonel Judd, who harbors a secret love for Beverley. Beverley goes into concealing in the forest where he signs up with the group of criminals and adopts the brand-new identity of 'Captain Scarlett'. In the meantime, the nefarious Colonel Judd conspires to wed Clare off to a Parliamentarian, Sergeant Sylvia (Oliver Reed), for political take advantage of.

Main Characters & Development
The facility of secret identity as 'Captain Scarlett' ends up being the turning point for Edward Beverly. He develops into a Robin Hood-esque figure, leading his band of castaways in a fierce disobedience against Colonel Judd's oppressive leadership. On the other hand, Clare plays a crucial role in a private network of spies faithful to the king, while continually avoiding Sergeant Sylvia's advances, and supporting Captain Scarlett's cause.

The antagonists, Colonel Judd and Sergeant Sylvia, bring a darker shade to the story with their treacherous politics and opportunistic manipulation in order to enhance their individual and political aspirations. They likewise highlight the style of power corruption in the movie.

Climax & Resolution
The action-packed climax features a series of extreme strategic battles in between the royalists and the roundheads. Nevertheless, the genuine tension resides in Captain Scarlett's strategy to rescue Clare from the organized marital relationship with Sergeant Sylvia. The rescue mission culminates in a remarkable showdown between Captain Scarlett and Sylvia. Ultimately, excellent accomplishments over wicked with the death of Sergeant Sylvia and Colonel Judd's failure. The film ends on a hopeful note, leading the way for the repair of peace and justice under King Charles I, as Captain Scarlett and Clare Judd look ahead to a future together.

Conclusion
"The Scarlet Blade" is a traditional British experience drama with all the aspects of political intrigue, action, love, and history woven into its narrative. The movie efficiently portrays the tension of the English Civil War duration, with an emphasis on power characteristics, corruption, and rebellion. Its characters are engaging and the storyline interesting, offering audiences a close insight into 17th-century English society and how people navigated the troubled political landscape.

Top Cast

  • Lionel Jeffries (small)
    Lionel Jeffries
    Colonel Judd
  • Oliver Reed (small)
    Oliver Reed
    Captain Sylvester
  • Jack Hedley (small)
    Jack Hedley
    Edward Beverley
  • June Thorburn (small)
    June Thorburn
    Claire Judd
  • Michael Ripper (small)
    Michael Ripper
    Pablo
  • Harold Goldblatt (small)
    Harold Goldblatt
    Jacob
  • Duncan Lamont (small)
    Duncan Lamont
    Maj. Bell
  • Clifford Elkin
    Philip Beverley
  • Suzan Farmer (small)
    Suzan Farmer
    Constance Beverley
  • John Harvey (small)
    John Harvey
    Sgt. Grey
  • Charles Houston
    Drury