Welcome, dear readers, to another exciting edition of the Sunday Morning Movie! This week, we’re diving into a timeless classic in the “swords and sandals” genre: The Golden Voyage of Sinbad. Featuring the remarkable stop-motion artistry of the legendary Ray Harryhausen, this film is the perfect choice for a laid-back Sunday afternoon.
Looking ahead to next week’s feature (Please note: contains sexually explicit scenes):
Here are some reviews of The Golden Voyage of Sinbad:
Film Music Central states:
All of Harryhausen’s creations are captivating, but my favorite is undoubtedly the six-armed statue named “Kali,” animated to life by Koura in a Lemurian temple. Although it shares a name with the Hindu goddess Kali, the statue’s initial pose resembles that of Shiva. One mesmerizing moment occurs when Koura commands Kali to dance, and all six arms move gracefully. Given the meticulous nature of stop-motion animation, I often ponder how long it took to bring the statue to life.
Medium remarks:
I’ve lost track of how many times I’ve watched ‘The Golden Voyage of Sinbad’ (1973) since I first discovered it as a five-year-old. Few films have probably held my attention this much over the years. It’s undeniably one of my favorite Harryhausen classics, and watching it on the big screen for its fiftieth anniversary reaffirmed its enduring charm and magic. What makes it so compelling? In my view, it’s not just the imaginative monsters or stunning stop-motion effects (though those are incredible), but rather the film’s delightful pace, which makes it a breezy watch.
Letterboxd comments:
What I adore about films like this is their efficiency. From the very first seconds, the adventure begins; a mystery unfolds, an enemy is introduced, and a quest is set—all within the first ten minutes. This gives Harryhausen ample time to showcase his array of creatures, both allies and adversaries. In this installment, we encounter a small goblin homunculus, an animated ship figurehead, the formidable Kali, a minotaur, and a last-minute appearance by a griffin. Although the creature count is slightly lower than in others, each one leaves a lasting impression.
My perspective:
I absolutely cherish this film. I overlook any lapses in acting quality or script flaws; it’s all about the immersive fantasy experience for me. Watching it in the eighties as a Dungeons and Dragons enthusiast, I was completely captivated. The stop-motion effects create an ambiance that today’s CGI often fails to replicate. Additionally, Tom Baker’s portrayal of the evil wizard adds to the allure, his remarkable screen presence later earning him his role as the most beloved Doctor Who. And let’s not forget the unforgettable outfit worn by Bond girl Caroline Munro, which surely made an impression on many young viewers.
Director:
Gordon Hessler
Writer: Brian Clemmens
Notable Actors: John Phillip Law, Tom Baker, Caroline Munro
Plot Summary (Spoilers Ahead!):
As Sinbad (Law) and his crew enjoy a serene day at sea, they spot a tiny flying figure carrying a golden artifact. After one crew member shoots at it with an arrow, the figure drops a golden tablet. While some crew members want to discard it, Sinbad has a vision and insists on keeping it.
Guided to shore by a sudden storm, Sinbad meets Koura (Baker), an evil magician who demands the tablet back. Sinbad, however, resists and escapes to a nearby city. There, he learns from the Grand Vizier that the tablet is part of a larger piece he has long sought. This piece promises wealth, youth, and protection. The Vizier possesses the companion piece, and together, they discover that the two tablets form a nautical map, prompting them to embark on a voyage to find the island indicated.
Throughout their journey, Sinbad encounters a flying homunculus, a captivating slave girl (Munro), and Koura, who relentlessly pursues him. Their adventures lead them to Lemuria, an enchanted lost island brimming with magic and wonders. High-stakes encounters ensue, including battles with a magical statue and a Cyclops-centaur hybrid. Although Koura nearly achieves his malevolent goal, his last-minute mistake leads to his downfall at the hands of Sinbad. Ultimately, a triumphant Sinbad gifts the remaining treasure from the tablet to the Vizier, claiming his freedom and the love of the lady for himself.
