Theme + performance + production = classic

Lois 2021-11-13 08:01:23

This movie is absolutely worthy of the title of classic, without the glitz of a commercial film, and an excellent work of high artistic level!
The theme is true and serious, but the processing is not pretentious. The theme discussed in the film is universal: risking to tell the truth or struggling in silence; of course, the film also touches the root of this dilemma-the pressure of survival. Whether it is the silence of the majority of workers, the protagonist’s initial exclusion, or the protagonist’s brother’s choice to step into the underworld, it reflects the plight of the bottom of American society. It is precisely because of this root cause that the film’s performance of taking risks and defending the truth is infectious, and has not evolved into pale propaganda.
Actor: Marlon Brando’s performance is of course needless to say. From his early works, he has shown strong adaptability to various roles. Even the small movements and expression changes are familiar with it, and it has a fascinating quality; Carl. The priest of Malden has a natural righteousness, which makes it hard to imagine that he can perform well in the villain in "Cyclops." Eva Marie Center played the protagonist in a movie for the first time. She has no sense of youthfulness, and she is professional in expressions, body language and lines. Lee Cobb-a complete villain, although he thinks that he has a trend of facial makeup in this type of role, he still has to admit that he is performing well here. The supporting role team can see young Rod Steiger, Martin Baltzman and others, it can be said that the superstars are just beginning to emerge.
Director Yili Kazan's level has been publicly stated, the scene scheduling is quite good, and the rhythm is relaxed. The film does not have brilliant colors, but there are unforgettable black and white photography-the composition of the picture is exquisite, the light and shadow are controlled freely, and the connection is natural and smooth. Of course, it must be mentioned that the conductor Bernstein’s soundtrack fits seamlessly with the film. It is difficult to ignore such a wonderful soundtrack during the viewing process. The theme is changeable and the mood is strong, but there is no abrupt sense of breaking away from the plot. The plot color makes it easy for listeners to imagine the release of "West Side Story" in the future.
In short, this is definitely an art film, a concise and lively plot film without obscurity. highly recommended

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Extended Reading
  • Ericka 2022-03-27 09:01:04

    The step-by-step transformation of the male protagonist is depicted in great detail, but why did the masses suddenly awaken from the collective unconscious? a little too idealistic

  • Miles 2022-04-22 07:01:08

    Hollywood's masterpiece in the age of the king of stories, the protagonist's emotions undergo complex changes in a short period of time, and they are perfectly conveyed to the audience. The anti-establishment theme reminds me of The Deadly Sword. The in-depth scheduling makes the characters more integrated into the background of the poor street, and they shuttle between them; the close-up performance is also in place, and Brando really did not build it. The looming Manhattan skyline across the river is like a modern curse on grassroots.

On the Waterfront quotes

  • Edie: Which side are you with?

    Terry: Me? I'm with me, Terry.

  • Edie: But Pop, I've seen things that I know are so wrong. Now how can I go back to school and keep my mind on... on things that are just in books, that-that-that aren't people living?