Sweeping, exciting spectacle, though on a bit lesser scale than usual. Power is a mixed-race (half British/half Indian) British officer in India battling the British class system on one side, the Indian caste system on the other side, racism from both sides, and rampaging, rebellious natives on all sides. Although he lacked the dynamism and ebullient personality of fellow swashbuckler Errol Flynn, Power nevertheless handled these kinds of action roles well, and was a good enough actor to pull them off believably. Terry Moore is, as always, miscast--she has the sunny demeanor of a USC cheerleader rather than the demure, dignified charm one would expect of the daughter of a senior, upper-class British officer. Michael Rennie's lip is properly stiff as the British commander, and Guy Rolfe is thoroughly effective as Power's megalomaniacal, menacing half-brother who is the leader of the rebels. Several extremely well staged action scenes--particularly at the climax--some very tense moments, crisp and beautiful Technicolor photography and Power's not-inconsiderable presence and charm make this a must-see for adventure fans--if they can ever find the damn thing. As mentioned previously, it hardly ever shows up on television and it's not out--legitimately, at least--on video or DVD yet.
Review of King of the Khyber Rifles
