Red-Barracuda This is an adaption of the famous Robert Louis Stevenson novel. I haven't read it myself but hear that this film is pretty faithful to the book. Set in the aftermath of the Battle of Culloden in 18th century Scotland, a young man is sold into slavery by his unscrupulous uncle. He is soon rescued by a Jacobite rebel who is presently an outlaw wanted by the British government. The two men form an alliance of sorts and subsequently become involved in an incident that creates various complications.The first thing that stands out from the outset here is that the cockney actor Michael Caine is starring in the role of Alan Breck, the Jacobite rebel. It seems like it must be a bit of miscasting, as it is difficult imagining Caine in such a role, however, pleasingly he is very good here and his film star charisma is used to very good effect for this particular character. The film also benefits a lot from plenty of nice on-location photography from around Scotland. It gives the whole production more of an authentic feel. The story-line is compelling and the direction is well-paced, while the events depicted are less over-the-top than in later Scottish adventures set in historical times such as Braveheart (1995) and this for me is a good thing. The story-line eventually dove-tails to a very bittersweet ending that seems like the only appropriate way to round things off.

p-hogan1 When this film was released, although still young, I was a film buff (not just in terms of cinematography but history, political biases etc.) of at least 25 years. I have to admit that I was severely biased against this version of 'Kidnapped' with Caine's casting and I am still puzzled as to the how/why of it's production. I have now watched it on a number of occasions and enjoy it more each time with age (both of myself and the film). What does come across, presumably from the script, particularly the comments of Trevor Howards character, and Michael Caine's 'less is more portrayal' of Alan Breck, is the sense of loss of the 'Celtic' past. I have travelled in Scotland but, despite the name, I have never been to Ireland before this year. Having grown up firmly 'English' I begin to feel that there seems to be an element of 'ethnic cleansing' went on.As an aside study, by comparison, I recommend John Buchan's 'John Burnet of Barns', 'Thirty Nine Steps' and 'Mr Standfast' which suggest that flight across the Scotish landscape has some deeper place in the psyche of the Scots.

mightyeye Actually, comparing with the many filmed interpretations it is a fair representation of Robert Louis Stevenson's grand story. At least it was filmed for the most part in Scotland and the lovely scenic shots add to the authenticity.I think there have been some unfair comments made on this particular interpretation but in general I would say it deserves a far better reception than some have given. I have no problem with the English actors playing Scottish characters, Caine here is a passable lowland Scots as Allan Breck. Actors after all are judged by their skills and interpretation of the character and that's all that matters, it would be a sad day if we have to be Scottish solely to play a Scottish character. However, I'm not sure that Caine's costume would be one anyone would be seen dead in, it was clearly awful, and hardly the sort of attire a rebel would be running around in.What matters is, that it is a fine interpretation of Stevenson's story.

larry-hilderbrand The plot revolves around a young man who is betrayed by his uncle and is kidnapped for service aboard a ship. The ship is headed for America where he will be sold into slavery. On board the ship, he is befriended by Alan Breck, a rebel Scotsman. The ship is wrecked off the coast of Scotland and Balfour (the young man) and Breck (played by Michael Caine) are forced to seek aid from some of Breck's relatives. The English are still combing the countryside in search of clansmen and rebels. The two become involved in the murder of a local Scot who was working for the British. They must then elude the British while making their way to Edinburgh. Balfour to confront his uncle and Breck to hire a ship for his escape to France. This movie is nothing but high adventure! Michael Caine plays the role with the same flair and style that he always brings to the screen. He portrays a man who is a true patriot yet he must face the realization that the Clans have now been effectively destroyed by the British--the Scotland he loved and fought for no longer exists. This is high adventure at its best! It is also a moving, poignant story of a culture in its death throes.It is a magnificent, heroic movie. I loved it! Hope it is soon released on DVD!!