The Spanish Sword
1962 British film by Ernest Morris
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The Spanish Sword is a low budget 1962 British second feature ('B')[1] adventure film directed by Ernest Morris and starring Ronald Howard, June Thorburn and Nigel Green.[2][3][4] It was written by Brian Clemens and produced by The Danzigers.
- Edward J. Danziger
- Harry Lee Danziger
- Brian Taylor
| The Spanish Sword | |
|---|---|
![](#/media/File:"The_Spanish_Sword"_(1962).png) | |
| Directed by | Ernest Morris |
| Written by | Brian Clemens (story) |
| Produced by |
|
| Cinematography | Walter J. Harvey (as Jimmy Harvey) |
| Edited by | Peter Pitt |
| Music by | Bill LeSage |
Production company | |
| Distributed by | United Artists Corporation (UK) |
Release date |
|
Running time | 62 minutes |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Language | English |
A knight protects the treasure of Henry III of England from a thieving baron.
Plot
Rebellion breaks out during the reign of Henry III, and a brave knight foils the plans of a baron to steal the treasure of the King.
Cast
- Ronald Howard as Sir Richard Clovell
- June Thorburn as Lady Eleanor
- Nigel Green as Baron Breaute
- Trader Faulkner as Philip
- Derrick Sherwin as Edmund
- Robin Hunter as Thomas of Exeter
- Sheila Whittingham as Frances
- Barry Shawzin as Redbeard
- Garard Green as sergeant
Production
It was the last film shot at New Elstree Studios, wrapping production on 4 December 1961.[5]
Critical reception
The Monthly Film Bulletin wrote: "Loyal knighthood-versus-treacherous tyranny in the reign of Henry III: unconvincing swordplay, tame characterisation and incident, direction without spark."[6]
Kine Weekly wrote: "Although it lacks scope the film has a robust story and a rousing final scene. ... This subject is one which lends itself to spectacle, but is denied it here. What it really lacks is scope and punch and this half-hearted approach mitigates against conviction, but hearty and robust encounters and a rousing finale accompanied by moderate suspense will hold the not too critical audience. Ronald Howard is a rather anaemic knight as Clovell and the role of Eleanor makes few demands upon June Thorburn while Nigel Green is a little too emphatic as the bombastic Breaute. The country settings are pleasing and the costumes give a more or less accurate picture of the period to bolster up the far-fetched plot."[7]
TV Guide wrote: "a weak script is saved by some impressive battle scenes and authentic-looking costuming."[8]