Review of Creature from the Black Lagoon (1954) by Wave C — 07 May 2012

I've been recently watching this, and it's risen on my personal charts quite a bit. Last time I'd seen it was when I was a little kid waiting for "Gill Man"...Now, I see it as an excellent outdoor adventure flick.

It's also a rarity in that actually seeing the creature (considered part of the classic Universal Monster line-up) the first time doesn't diminish any expectations. I still think the opening narration is 'out of place' in a film like this, but it's a necessary (and easily skippable - is that a word?) evil.

First, I must say that the copy I have is extremely crisp, which is probably easier to notice since it's a black and white production. Next, I love how there isn't much drag between the initial discovery of a strange 'fossil', and the expedition's arrival at the Lagoon.

Another thing I enjoy is how the Creature's (Ricou Browning - in the underwater shots) movements are so fluid, and natural-appearing. The character of Lucas (Nestor Paiva) is excellent in keeping the flavor and mood of the Lagoon.

One thing which I still don't care much for is the Creature's (Ben Chapman - above water/on land) fascination for Kay (Julia Adams), to the point that she's merely taken captive rather than being mauled/killed like other characters.

Still I love just kicking back and watching the movie unfold, while also unconsciously enjoying the beautiful background scenery which is an integral part of the story (making you almost believe you're in an Amazonian jungle), rather than just being a 'backdrop'.