Mysterious Island

Based on Jules Verne's sequel to 20,000 Leagues under the Sea, this enjoyable British production blends Sinbad-style giant monster thrills, pirates, volcanic eruptions and, of course, Captain Nemo (not James Mason this time, but Herbert Lom). The menagerie of monsters from stop-frame animation maestro Ray Harryhausen provides most of the film's highlights, as oversized bees and colossal crabs threaten the lives of Michael Craig, Joan Greenwood and their companions. Although the rather colourless cast doesn't do much to raise excitement levels, Harryhausen's fine work and Bernard Herrmann's atmospheric score make this fantasy island worth an excursion.