The Extraordinary Seaman

In The Extraordinary Seaman, David Niven stars as Lt. Commander Finchhaven, a veteran of WWII who has become disillusioned with the Navy and seeks to retire to a quiet life on a South Pacific island. However, his plans are thwarted when he is assigned to lead a motley crew of sailors on a mission to transport a cargo of gold bullion to the United States.

Despite their inexperience and various personal quirks, Finchhaven and his crew set sail aboard the USS San Pablo, a decrepit vessel that has seen better days. Along the way, they encounter a host of obstacles, including a treacherous typhoon, a band of mischievous islanders, and a pack of hungry sharks.

Adding to the chaos is Faye Dunaway's character, Anne, a sultry con artist who stows away on board and complicates matters for Finchhaven and his crew. Alan Alda also stars as Lieutenant Merriwether, a bumbling officer who becomes a target for the crew's practical jokes.

As the journey continues, tensions rise and alliances are tested as Finchhaven and his crew struggle to keep the gold safe from harm and make it back to the United States in one piece.

The Extraordinary Seaman is a rollicking adventure-comedy that features a strong ensemble cast and some impressive nautical action sequences. Niven delivers a typically charming performance as Finchhaven, a man who is more interested in enjoying the good life than taking risks or following orders. Dunaway brings her trademark charisma to the role of Anne, a woman who is not above using her wiles to get what she wants.

Alda provides plenty of comedic relief as Merriwether, a man with more book smarts than common sense. The supporting cast is also solid, with memorable performances from such actors as John Hanek, who plays the salty sailor Butcher Bates, and Orson Bean, who portrays the hapless sailor Crump.

Directed by John Frankenheimer, The Extraordinary Seaman is a film that benefits from its eclectic mix of genres, blending elements of comedy, drama, and action in a way that keeps the audience engaged and entertained. The film also features some impressive production values, with the USS San Pablo convincingly portrayed as a dilapidated vessel that has seen better days.

Overall, The Extraordinary Seaman is a fun and entertaining movie that will appeal to fans of classic Hollywood adventure films. While it may not be the most polished or sophisticated film of its era, it more than makes up for its shortcomings with its infectious energy and sense of fun. Whether you're a fan of David Niven, Faye Dunaway, or Alan Alda, or simply love a good nautical adventure story, The Extraordinary Seaman is a film that is well worth checking out.