Joe Pantera

Thoughtful, interesting coming-of-age story follows the traits of its Native American hero trying to find his way through a tough and not so friendly world; adequate performances and some good (underwater) cinematography make this film quite watchable.

Seminole Indian Joe Panther (Ray Tracey) dreams of a living outside of alligator wrestling shows for tourists with his friend Tiger (A Martinez). He decides to apply for a job as a ship hand for Captain Harper (Brian Keith) and, while he gets the job, is unprepared for the harsh reality of the white man's world. Thankfully, he has wise Turtle (Ricardo Montalban) around to offer him advice. I occasionally have to wash the movie muck out of my head and this G-rated flick was the antidote from my depraved/pathetic viewings. Based on a book by Zachary Ball, it is a gentle coming-of-age story that benefits from great performances, good Florida locations, a cool dog and some excellent underwater photography (done by Ricou Browning, the "Creature" from CREATURE FROM THE BLACK LAGOON). This was directed by TV vet Paul Krasny. The film was hilariously re-released under the title THE MONSTER OF GATOR SWAMP with advertising that made it look like a horror movie. I bet some folks were sure demanding their money back. There is also an excellent tune by England Dan & John Ford Coley that plays throughout the film. Sadly, the film is not on DVD.