Review of Captains Courageous (1937) by Dave J — 30 Oct 2010

Really, even the positive reviewers (most everyone) sell this movie short. This is one of the all-time classics and now perhaps my favorite film. The acting is superb all the way around, and Freddie Bartholomew stands out as the spoiled, rich kid destined for a life-altering experience. And, no, his acting wasn't just "good for the 1930s," as some indicated; it was, in fact, one of the best child performances I've witnessed. (Side note: Did you know that Bartholomew was the second most popular child actor in the '30s next to Shirley Temple? This is why he received top billing in the film.).

More significantly, though, the film is a beautiful story of love and redemption. It reflects great virtue, a quality sorely lacking in today's fare. I'd give it six stars if I could.