Captiva Island

IMDB suggested this film a few weeks ago, got an evening and took it in. Scenery is great, shot very well, actors gave it a fun, family friendly performance. So when then grandkids came over I played it for them... they were completely taken in by it. Great family film, well done!

I must preface the fact that the director of this turkey is known by our family, but after seeing it... I'm glad I saw a pre-release copy on VHS, as I would have demanded a refund. The sole saving grace of this film is the beautiful "stock" footage of Southwest Florida that plays during the opening credits..truly masterful stuff (Biffar had a lot of practice at that, being in local TV production for years), but the acting is truly cringe-worthy at times. Ernie Borgnine is one of my favorite character actors, but from the looks of things, he really mailed in his performance. Arte Johnson? I won't even go there... The impression I got was of a high-school film project, albeit with a larger budget. This movie was being filmed around the same time that "Just Cause" was being filmed in our area, and the latter is a much better film, in my opinion. "Captiva" (original title) is a family friendly story and film, but go in with low expectations and you may be surprised.

I saw this movie for the first time about a year ago with my brother, and 107 viewings and a video purchase later, this is the most "TREASURED" item in my collection. Captiva Island is a non-stop thrill ride with Die Hardian action and Pulp Fictiony dialogue. The script was superb, the direction magnificent, and the acting was masterful (notably, Ernest Borgnine as the happy fat guy). If there's one movie you folks need to see this lifetime, Captiva Island is it. This one is a 10.

This film is much loved in our home. It's not a great film, but it has a lot of heart. The real star here is the beautiful Florida wildlife and scenery, which the movie does a great job of celebrating. It's a simple and sweet story, if lacking in originality and surprise. It's a great film for young children. Think of fun, campy movies in the tradition of Mystery of Dracula's Castle and The Adventures of Tom Sawyer It's actually pretty reminiscent of those old Haley Mills movies, like Summer Magic. It's cute and campy, and fun. Don't go in expecting a life-altering film of shocking creativity, but expect to be entertained. The scenery is still the star though, and if you love Florida, especially if you've been to and love the Sanibel/Captiva area!

A cross between "Captains Courageous" and "Cocoon" -- highly enjoyable family film, beautifully photographed, great performances -- the duet of Ernest Borgnine and Arte Johnson singing The Rascals' "Good Lovin'" was a highlight -- and a couple of well staged movie in-jokes (the "Apocalypse Now" inspired invasion scene, scaled down and complete with 'Ride of The Valkarys' music, was well done) made seeing this movie a very pleasant surprise.

Sadly this movie did not receive a theatrical release and one would have to look long and hard to find it either on home video or in TV listings -- but do find it as it's well worth it.