AllMovie

The Crimson Pirate features one of Burt Lancaster's most athletic performances, though the film seems unable to decide whether it's a satire or an adventure story. Fortunately, the satire elements are funny and warm-hearted, and the adventure portion rousing and entertaining. The film has an authentic visual feel, thanks in large part to the costumes of Margaret Furse and Marjorie Best and Paul Sheriff's set design. The film has many intentional anachronisms, including pseudo-science fiction contrivances and cartoonish action sequences. Perhaps because of these incongruities, The Crimson Pirate has a devoted following and is a favorite at cult-movie festivals. Lancaster's performance is first-rate, and Otto Heller's cinematography adds a vivid flair to the proceedings.