Film Review: The 7th Voyage of Sinbad (1958)
Ray Harryhausen was the most celebrated visual effects expert of the third quarter of the 20th century. Though his techniques, primarily based on stop animation, may appear dated by today's standards, they were unparalleled during their time and profoundly influenced future film magicians. Harryhausen's creations primarily consisted of giant and fantastical creatures, which cemented his films within the realms of science fiction or fantasy. In 1958, Nathan Juran's The 7th Voyage of Sinbad emerged as one of the seminal classics of fantasy adventure.
Inspired by stories about Sinbad the Sailor from the famous medieval tome, Arabian Nights, the film follows Sinbad (played by Kerwin Matthews) on his return journey to Baghdad after a diplomatic mission to the Sultanate of Chandra. When he must stop for resupply on Colossa, an island inhabited by cyclops and other colossal creatures, Sinbad rescues powerful wizard Sokurah (played by Torin Thatcher) from a cyclops. However, cyclops manages to steal Sokurah’s precious magic lamp, leading Sokurah to seek Sinbad's help in reclaiming it. Since he is engaged to Princess Parisa (played by Kathryn Grant), Sinbad refuses to risk his life, ship and crew in such dangerous mission. After arrival in Baghdad, Sokurah forces the issue by shrinking Parisa informs him that only the potion containing the eggshell of Roc, a gigantic bird inhabiting Colossa, can restore her to her normal size.
In 1950s Hollywood, fantastic period adventures like The 7th Voyage of Sinbad were often considered B-production material. However, Harryhausen revolutionised the genre by combining his film magic with colour and widescreen formats, developing a technique that would later be called "Dynanimation." This brought to life cyclops, dragon, giant bird, skeleton, and even a bizarre amalgamation of snake and Parisa's maidservant (played by Nena DeHerrera). Harryhausen also flawlessly created the illusion of Parisa being miniaturised yet interacting with the regular world.
The film's simple but effective story blends adventure and action with a touch of romance, all within the context of Harryhausen's magical creations. Nathan Juran directs the film well, utilizing not only Harryhausen's effects but also Spanish locations and Hollywood studio sets. The pacing is quick, and although the action can be violent at times, it remains family-friendly.
The acting is solid throughout, with Kerwin Matthews providing a handsome yet somewhat bland performance as Sinbad. Kathryn Grant shines as the charming princess, while British veteran character actor Torin Thatcher delightfully plays the villainous Sokura. Child actor Richard Eyer also impresses in his role as the genie.
Bernard Herrmann's immensely effective score further elevates The 7th Voyage of Sinbad to classic status. The film's success not only cemented Harryhausen's reputation but also led him to collaborate with the cast and crew on further projects, most notably Jason and the Argonauts. The saga of Sinbad continued in two sequels: The Golden Voyage of Sinbad (1973) starring John Philip Law and Sinbad and the Eye of the Tiger (1977) featuring Patrick Wayne.
The 7th Voyage of Sinbad is a classic example of Harryhausen's mastery, blending visual effects with storytelling to create an enduring adventure that continues to captivate audiences today.
RATING: 8/10 (+++)
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