The 1770s. Jason Caldwell (a perfectly dashing portrayal by the handsome Keith Michell) returns to his ancestral estate in the wake of a lengthy absence to reclaim his lordship. However, Jason discovers that his evil and decadent cousin Thomas (ably played with lip-smacking wicked relish by Peter Arne) has turned the manor into a disreputable den of sin and inequity.
Directors Monty Berman and Robert S. Baker, working from a compact and eventful script by Jimmy Sangster and Leon Griffiths, offers a vivid and flavorsome evocation of the 18th century period setting, keeps the enjoyable story moving along at a brisk pace, stages the rousing action set pieces with rip-roaring gusto, and tosses in a few saucy moments of near female nudity for extra tantalizing measure. Moreover, it's acted with considerable zest by a tip-top cast: Adrienne Corri provides plenty of spark, sass, and sexiness as the feisty Lady Isobel, Peter Cushing contributes a lively turn as cagey lawyer Mr. Merryweather, Kai Fischer makes a favorable impression as the bubbly and enticing Yvonne, and David Lodge does well as the loyal Timothy. Clifton Parker's spirited score hits the stirring spot. The crisp widescreen cinematography supplies a vibrant and sumptuous look. An extremely fun romp.
Directors Monty Berman and Robert S. Baker, working from a compact and eventful script by Jimmy Sangster and Leon Griffiths, offers a vivid and flavorsome evocation of the 18th century period setting, keeps the enjoyable story moving along at a brisk pace, stages the rousing action set pieces with rip-roaring gusto, and tosses in a few saucy moments of near female nudity for extra tantalizing measure. Moreover, it's acted with considerable zest by a tip-top cast: Adrienne Corri provides plenty of spark, sass, and sexiness as the feisty Lady Isobel, Peter Cushing contributes a lively turn as cagey lawyer Mr. Merryweather, Kai Fischer makes a favorable impression as the bubbly and enticing Yvonne, and David Lodge does well as the loyal Timothy. Clifton Parker's spirited score hits the stirring spot. The crisp widescreen cinematography supplies a vibrant and sumptuous look. An extremely fun romp.