Watch The Kissing Bandit

"The Kissing Bandit" is a charming musical comedy from 1948, starring Frank Sinatra as Ricardo, a young man who dreams of becoming a famous musician. However, his plans are put on hold when he inherits the role of his father, the infamous bandit El Nino, who has been terrorizing the citizens of Old California with his romantic escapades.

As Ricardo struggles to balance his newfound responsibilities with his love for music, he meets the lovely Teresa (Kathryn Grayson), who is determined to capture the rogue bandit and bring him to justice. But when Ricardo and Teresa fall in love, things become even more complicated, as she must choose between her duty and her heart.

With a lively score by Jule Styne and a whimsical script by Allen Rivkin and Laura Kerr, "The Kissing Bandit" is a delightful romp that showcases Sinatra's singing and comedic talents. His rendition of "What's Wrong With Me?" is a standout, as is Grayson's enchanting performance of "Love Is Where You Find It."

J. Carrol Naish adds a touch of menace as the villainous General Torreblanca, who is hell-bent on capturing El Nino and stealing Teresa away from Ricardo. But it's Sinatra and Grayson's chemistry that steals the show, as they bicker, flirt, and serenade each other with equal skill.

Director Laslo Benedek keeps the action brisk and breezy, with plenty of colorful set pieces, lively dance numbers, and tongue-in-cheek humor. The finale, set atop a giant bell tower, is an impressive feat of acrobatics and choreography that is sure to delight audiences of all ages.

At its core, "The Kissing Bandit" is a sweet and simple tale of love and adventure that is impossible not to enjoy. Sinatra is at his charming best, Grayson is luminous and lovely, and the supporting cast is uniformly excellent. Whether you're a fan of musicals or just looking for a light and entertaining movie to brighten your day, "The Kissing Bandit" is sure to fit the bill.

The Kissing Bandit is a 1948 comedy with a runtime of 1 hour and 40 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 5.3.