It took Hollywood a while to bring to the screen C. S. Forester's fascinating character Horatio Hornblower but never known to do things by halves it amalgamated in this film not one but three of Hornblower's early adventures, namely 'The Happy Return', 'Ship of the Line' and the short story 'Flying Colours'.

By all accounts it was originally intended as a vehicle for Errol Flynn but alas Mr. Flynn's star was beginning to wane and his unreliable behaviour made him too risky a proposition. As there was no actor on Warner Brothers' payroll who seemed to fit the bill, it fell to Gregory Peck, on loan from David 0. Selznick, to play the part. It turned out to be inspired casting as Mr. Peck captures brilliantly the character's innate courage and intelligence as well as his reserve and introspection. This is a star performance from one of Hollywood's finest. Those who describe him as 'wooden' are not looking at his eyes!

The obligatory romantic interest is supplied by Lady Barbara Wellesley, fictionalised sister of the Duke of Wellington who is played by Virginia Mayo.

Apparently a number of English actresses were considered but were either unavailable or uninterested. This is a far cry from Miss Mayo's role as Verna in 'White Heat' and she acquits herself very well. She is immensely appealing and has a chemistry with her leading man which always helps. Of course Miss Mayo always found an extra vitality for this particular director.

The indifference that director Raoul Walsh felt towards dialogue scenes is legendary but his mastery of action sequences is evident here in the naval battles. He never allows the pace to slacken and is aided by Guy Green's cinematography and a splendid score by Robert Farnon.

As roughly ninety-six per cent of the earth's water is oceanic it is hardly surprising that the genre of 'nautical fiction' has proved so popular. The pioneer in this country was of course Frederick Marryat who influenced both Forester and Patrick 0'Brian. Regarding the preference that some reviewers have expressed for Peter Weir's version of 0'Brian's 'Master and Commander', I can only only echo Hornblower's "Ha-hmm!"

Great naval adventure, based on CS Forester's series of books. Solid plot, energetically directed. Special effects are great, especially for 1951.

Gregory Peck is his usual brilliant self. Solid support from Virginia Mayo, Robert Beatty and James Robertson Justice.

Great fun.

Raul Walsh directs this action packed adventure, based on three novels by C.S. Forester. Captain Horatio Hornblower(Gregory Peck) is a stern 19th-century seafarer during the Napoleonic wars. He sometimes hides the truth from the hands on the ship Lydia in order to survive battles with Spain and France in Central American waters. Eight months into his mission he takes on board Lady Barbara Wellesley(Virgina Mayo) and her hand-maid for the return trip to England. Their love is professed, but will not continue for she is promised to a Rear Admiral soon to be Hornblower's commander. Along the way back to British shores Lady Barbara comes down ill and Hornblower nurses her back to health. This is a prelude to a serious situation in his own home. He arrives and finds that his wife has died in childbirth. His thoughts return to Lady Barbara, but she has already married. Plenty of action with cannon laden majestic ships in battle. The supporting cast features: Robert Beatty, James Kenney, Alec Mango, Denis O'Dea and Christopher Lee. Almost two hours of sea-going adventure in beautiful Technicolor.