The Black Arrow (1948) | Directed by Gordon Douglas

"The Black Arrow" is a 1948 American adventure film directed by Gordon Douglas. It stars Louis Hayward, Janet Blair, and George Macready. The film is based on the novel "The Black Arrow: A Tale of the Two Roses" by Robert Louis Stevenson, which is set during the Wars of the Roses (1455-1487) in England.

The story follows Richard Shelton (played by Louis Hayward), a young man who becomes embroiled in the conflict between the House of York and the House of Lancaster. After discovering that his guardian, Sir Daniel Brackley (played by George Macready), is responsible for his father's death, Shelton joins the outlaw band known as the Black Arrow to seek vengeance. Along the way, he must navigate a path of loyalty, justice, and love, as he falls for Joanna Sedley (played by Janet Blair), an heiress who is also entangled in the political intrigue of the times.

"The Black Arrow" combines elements of historical drama, adventure, and romance, set against the backdrop of one of England's most turbulent periods. The film captures the essence of Stevenson's novel, offering a story of personal growth, revenge, and the quest for justice amidst the complexities of war and power struggles.

With its period costumes, sword fights, and scenes of medieval warfare, "The Black Arrow" contributed to the popularity of historical and adventure films in the late 1940s. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of Robert Louis Stevenson's work and the fascination with the medieval past.