Review of Namu, the Killer Whale (1966) by Monsieur R — 12 May 2014

Basically a kid's movie, so it is difficult to really trash it. As a children's film primarily, it's ok. As an adult film it is barely interesting. Terribly mistitled, this orca whale is NO threat to anybody. It isn't all that big either, maybe 12 feet long. The movie portrays this whale like a dolphin. The movie was later released as "Namu, My Best Friend" (more accurate).

The soundtrack is pretty lame. The camerwork is very basic, tv like. The story is true, which is a plus. Marine biologist (Robert Lansing, veteran TV actor) studying the whale defends it from hostile native fishermen who believe their salmon industry is being threatened by the big fish.

Those familiar with Robert Lansing and John Anderson will recoginize them from dozens of 60's television and movie appearances. Anderson almost always plays a villain, as he does again in this "whale" of a movie.

Great for whale lovers, sea life lovers, kids and easily entertained adults. A family film first rate.

Directed by László Benedek.

Produced by László Benedek, Lamar Boren, Ivan Tors.

Written by Arthur Weiss.

Starring.

Robert Lansing ... Hank Donner (veteran tv actor).

John Anderson ... Joe Clausen (veteran Western actor).

Robin Mattson ... Lisa Rand.

Richard Erdman ... Deke.

Lee Meriwether ... Kate Rand.

Joe Higgins ... Burt.

Michael Shea ... Nick.

Clara Tarte ... Carrie.

Edwin Rochelle ... Charlie.

Music by Samuel Matlovsky (original music), Tom Glazer (theme song).

Cinematography Lamar Boren.

Editing by Erwin Dumbrille.

Studio United Artists.

Distributed by United Artists (theatrical), MGM Home Entertainment (video).

Release date(s) August 1966 (1966-08).

Running time 89 minutes.

Country USA.

Language English.