Review of Mutiny on the Bounty (1935) by Jose Luis M — 11 Jul 2014

This is the closest thing to an action movie during this time and is never dull. Clark Gable as first mate Fletcher Christian is confident and dashing, which is juxtaposed vividly to his rival Capt. William Bligh played by Charles Laughton.

Bligh is very unlikeable for his unnecessarily cruel treatment of his crew but Laughton's performance though his face and demeanor make his character truly contemptible. It's the story here that really holds your attention above all.

This is the kind of film that makes your blood boil with indignation while director Frank Lloyd makes you wait for the inevitable mutiny. For a while you think there might be a final confrontation between Bligh and Christian but it never comes, and you are still left feeling frustrated as Bligh commits a few more injustices before it's over.

All of the high budget sailing and sea shots don't feel dated in any way, the effort for authenticity still shows today. Most big budget films then and today feel the need for a love story so there is some more lighthearted romance when Christian and the second mate Roger Byam, (played by Franchot Tone who also give a noteworthy performance) meet some friendly island natives.

This interlude is enjoyable but is just a piece of parsley on the side to the meat of the story.