The Kissing Bandit
The Kissing Bandit

Movie spotlight

The Kissing Bandit

1948
Movie
100 min
English

Ricardo, the milquetoast son of a Mexican bandit, would rather lead a quiet life in Boston. But the family would rather that he follow in his father's footsteps and become "The Kissing Bandit".

Insights

IMDb6.1/10
Director: Laslo BenedekGenres: Musical, Western

Plot Summary

In 19th-century Italy, a bandit known as 'The Kissing Bandit' romances women and steals from the rich. His activities attract the attention of the local Baron, who schemes to capture him. However, the bandit falls for the Baron's daughter, leading to a series of musical numbers and comedic escapades as they try to outwit the authorities and each other.

Critical Reception

The Kissing Bandit was a box office disappointment and received mixed reviews, with many critics finding its plot weak and its musical numbers disjointed from the narrative. Despite the star power of Frank Sinatra and Kathryn Grayson, and the vibrant Technicolor, the film failed to impress audiences or critics.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its vibrant Technicolor and energetic musical performances, particularly from Ann Miller.

  • Criticized for a nonsensical plot and a lack of chemistry between the leads.

  • Considered a lavish but ultimately forgettable musical.

Google audience: Audience reception is largely absent due to the film's age and lack of widespread availability, but it is generally viewed as a minor entry in the musical genre.

Fun Fact

Frank Sinatra, who played the titular 'Kissing Bandit', actually disliked the role and the film itself, reportedly feeling it was beneath him and that the script was weak.

AI-generated overview · Verify ratings on official sources

My Review