El tesoro de la isla Maciel (The Treasure of Maciel Island) is a 1941 Argentine comedy film directed by Manuel Romero.
Production
The 73-minute black and white Lumiton film was directed and written by Manuel Romero. It is an adaptation of a popular stage play. Music is by Rodolfo Sciammarella and cinematography by Hugo Chiesa. The film was released in Argentina on 8 July 1941. It stars Luis Arata, Severo Fernández and Alberto Bello.
Synopsis
A retired sea captain is profoundly bored. His sons hope to wake him up by staging a fake treasure hunt. This turns into a difficult journey to the Río de la Plata islands. The family are unaware that their backyard holds a valuable oil well. The farce is fast-paced, only slightly hampered by a romantic subplot.
Reception
El Mundo said the film achieved some popular comic effect. Although void of any cinematographic merit, the dynamism of its action could not be denied. The show was amusing. Manrupe and Portela said of the film that it was a simple work derived from a farce, but there were some moments of humor from a runaway Luis Arata and an insufferable Severo Fernández. Another critic called the film puerile and verbose.
Cast
The cast included:
