Review of On the Waterfront (1954) by Ben F — 13 Jan 2010

In order to view "On the Waterfront" in a larger sense, viewers need to look beyond the boundaries of film, and into the moral characteristics of a human being. Not only is this necessary for the film's sake, but it's also necessary in order to understand the movie's director, Elia Kazan.

"On the Waterfront" tells the story of Marlon Brando, who plays Terry, and ex fighter, who at this point of his life, is completely down in the dumps. He used to be something important, but now he is just apart of the mob. Terry starts to realize the wrong that is going on around him, and he wants to get out of it. But it's not easy to get out of the mob. He has to fight to basically stay alive.

This movie has a wonderful lineup of amazing actors, but it really all comes down to Marlon Brando and Lee J Cobb. These two rolls are exactly on the opposite ends of the spectrum, and they are the two most important of the movie. They both really do give beautiful performances, and it's always fun to watch these two actors separately, but when they come together, it's really a treat to watch.

Another thing to pay attention to in this film is the music, which I have to say is amazing. Leonard Bernstein really did do a good job with the soundtrack, and it makes the movie all the more enjoyable. In scenes with drama and tragedy, Bernstein gives wonderful orchestral background, to make us fall deeper into the film.

Overall, this movie is fantastic. It's of high importance in history, AND in film. If your a movie buff and haven't seen this, then do.....As a matter of fact, see it no matter who you are...It's that good.