Common Sense Media Review
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
age 10+
The outdated classic has colonial racial views.
Not present
Not present
Not present
Videos and photos
Based on 1 parent review
What is the story?
IN KING SOLOMON’S MINE, Elizabeth Curtis (Deborah Kerr) hires Africa’s best “white hunter” (Stewart Granger as dashing Allan Quartermain) to help her find her husband, who is lost in search of King Solomon’s legendary diamond mines. At first he refuses, saying that women have no place on safari. When she offers twenty times his usual fee, he accepts, but remains skeptical of her motives and her ability to survive the journey. In traditional “road movie” fashion, they develop respect and affection through their adventures.
Is it good?
This is the best of many versions of H. Rider Haggard’s classic adventure novel. The story (and performances) are a bit creaky, but it’s an old-fashioned Technicolor spectacular, with breathtaking, Oscar-winning cinematography. Filmed on location in Kenya, then Tanganyika and the Belgian Congo, bits and pieces from this film were used in several other films, including the otherwise poor 1977 remake. Scenery and animal shots are stunningly clear and vivid, especially the unforgettable shot of a newly unwound baby alligator and the scene of the Watusi dance.
Talk to your kids about…
Did we miss something about diversity?
Research shows a link between children’s healthy self-esteem and positive portrayals in the media. That’s why we’ve added a new “Different Representations” section to our reviews that will be published on an ongoing basis. You can help us help children