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Blackbeard's Ghost

Play trailer Poster for Blackbeard's Ghost G 1968 1h 46m Kids & Family Fantasy Play Trailer Watchlist
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82% Tomatometer 11 Reviews 71% Popcornmeter 5,000+ Ratings
After accidentally reciting some magic words, track coach Steve Walker (Dean Jones) summons the ghost of the dreaded pirate Blackbeard (Peter Ustinov). The spirit explains to Steve that he was cursed by his wife to roam the Earth until he performs one good deed. Since Steve is the only one who can hear or see Blackbeard, he has no choice but to aid him in his task. Together, they help Professor Backer (Suzanne Pleshette) stop a gang of crooks from taking over an inn for the elderly.
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Blackbeard's Ghost

Critics Reviews

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Roger Ebert Chicago Sun-Times 10/23/2004
3/4
The plot is completely confused, and kids, who are much better at these things than adults, will enjoy its twists and turns. Ustinov is fine as the rum swilling, yo-ho-hoing Blackbeard. Go to Full Review
Steven D. Greydanus Decent Films 07/25/2003
C+
Undeniably silly and somewhat dated, Blackbeard’s Ghost remains harmless, modestly entertaining family fare. Go to Full Review
Rachel Wagner Rachel's Reviews (YouTube) 05/16/2019
B
[Peter Ustinov 's] very funny in the role of Blackbeard. Go to Full Review
Scott G. Mignola Common Sense Media 01/02/2011
3/5
A yo-ho-wholesome retread of Disney favorites. Go to Full Review
Steve Crum Video-Reviewmaster.com 04/20/2007
3/5
Middling Disney a la Dean Jones and Peter Ustinov; OK family fare. Go to Full Review
Emanuel Levy EmanuelLevy.Com 08/08/2005
3/5
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Audience Reviews

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Claudio C Oct 28 Blackbeard's Ghost (1968) Hilarious Adventure (12,023 – 28 Oct 2025– by Claudio Carvalho) The track coach Steve Walker (Dean Jones) arrives at Godolphin town to work at the local college. He heads to the Blackbeard’s Inn, where there is an auction to help the Daughters of the Buccaneers to raise money to pay the mortgage and keep the inn. The gangster Silky Seymour (Joby Baker) wants to build a casino due to its location. Steve feels attracted by Professor Jo Anne Baker (Suzanne Pleshette) and buys a warming pan to help the old ladies and impress Baker. He accidentally sits on the device, who belonged to a witch, and finds a list of spells hidden inside. He reads one of them and summons the ghost of Blackbeard (Peter Ustinov), who is attached to him. Now he tries to get rid of the drunken pirate that only he can see, while training his weak group of students for a competition. “Blackbeard's Ghost” (1968) is a hilarious adventure by Disney, when this company was a synonym of movies of good quality for family entertainment. The film has names such as Peter Ustinov, Suzanne Pleshette and Elsa Lanchester among others, and is extremely funny. My vote is seven. Title (Brazil): “O Fantasma do Barba Negra” (“Blackbeard's Ghost”) My Blog: https://maniacosporfilme.wordpress.com/ See more Stephen C @bob25009 Oct 4 Success in 1 hour and 46 minutes!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! See more Russell H Jun 2 Slightly humorous in a silly way See more Matt B Feb 6 Dean and Peter are great. So is the rest of the cast. This is a clean-fun, Disney classic. See more Dale R 07/07/2024 This is the first movie without the touch of Walt Disney. This movie reminded me a lot of The Absent Minded Professor. Instead of flubber, it was a ghost and instead of a basketball game, it was a track meet. I’m not really a fan of Suzanne Pleshette, but she has less to do as a romantic lead here than in The Ugly Dachshund, which is a positive for me. Special effects were good for the time and the story was interesting. I’d recommend giving it a watch. See more Jose B 06/28/2023 "Blackbeard's Ghost" (1968) - A Swashbuckling Comedy with Supernatural Charm by José Beltrán Rating: ★★★★☆ (4/5) Review: Blackbeard's Ghost is a delightful and whimsical comedy that combines elements of supernatural adventure, romance, and sports. Directed by Robert Stevenson and boasting a talented cast led by Peter Ustinov, Dean Jones, and Suzanne Pleshette, this film offers an entertaining and lighthearted experience for audiences of all ages. Set in the picturesque coastal town of Godolphin, the story follows Steve Walker (Dean Jones), a newly appointed track coach at Godolphin College. Arriving at Blackbeard's Inn, a charming establishment run by the Daughters of the Buccaneers, Steve becomes entangled in a battle to save the inn from the clutches of the local crime boss, Silky Seymour (Joby Baker). Determined to pay off the mortgage and protect the inn's legacy, Steve discovers an unexpected ally in the form of Blackbeard's ghost (Peter Ustinov). Peter Ustinov's portrayal of Blackbeard is the highlight of the film, infusing the character with a perfect blend of mischievousness and charm. Ustinov's comedic timing and larger-than-life presence bring the legendary pirate to life in a way that is both endearing and hilarious. Dean Jones delivers a solid performance as the skeptical and reluctant Steve Walker, providing a relatable anchor amidst the supernatural chaos. The chemistry between Jones and Suzanne Pleshette, who plays the intelligent and supportive professor Jo Anne Baker, adds an extra layer of warmth and romance to the story. Their blossoming relationship adds an emotional depth that complements the film's comedic elements. The screenplay skillfully weaves together various plotlines, seamlessly blending the ghostly encounters, sports challenges, and the fight to save Blackbeard's Inn. The film strikes a perfect balance between humor, adventure, and heartfelt moments, making it an engaging and enjoyable watch from start to finish. Director Robert Stevenson's masterful direction captures the essence of the coastal setting, creating a visually appealing backdrop for the unfolding events. The film's production design and costumes also deserve praise for their attention to detail, effectively immersing viewers in the world of pirates and seafaring lore. While some may find the film's plot predictable at times, Blackbeard's Ghost compensates with its charismatic performances, witty dialogue, and a heartwarming message about the power of good deeds and redemption. The spirited interactions between Blackbeard and Steve, as well as the misadventures that arise from Blackbeard's attempts to help the track team, generate plenty of laughs and genuine entertainment. Overall, Blackbeard's Ghost is a delightful family-friendly film that combines supernatural elements with comedy, romance, and sports in an engaging and entertaining way. With its memorable characters, enchanting story, and delightful humor, this classic from 1968 continues to captivate audiences with its timeless charm. Embark on a swashbuckling adventure filled with laughter, love, and the enduring spirit of Blackbeard's Ghost. See more Read all reviews
Blackbeard's Ghost

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Movie Info

Synopsis After accidentally reciting some magic words, track coach Steve Walker (Dean Jones) summons the ghost of the dreaded pirate Blackbeard (Peter Ustinov). The spirit explains to Steve that he was cursed by his wife to roam the Earth until he performs one good deed. Since Steve is the only one who can hear or see Blackbeard, he has no choice but to aid him in his task. Together, they help Professor Backer (Suzanne Pleshette) stop a gang of crooks from taking over an inn for the elderly.
Director
Robert Stevenson
Producer
Bill Walsh
Screenwriter
Bill Walsh, Don DaGradi
Production Co
Walt Disney Productions
Rating
G
Genre
Kids & Family, Fantasy
Original Language
English
Release Date (Streaming)
Jan 1, 2014
Runtime
1h 46m
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