Review of On the Waterfront (1954) by John M — 31 Jul 2017
Truly classic, to a degree.. Marlon Brando delivers a sterling performance as down-and-out former prize-fighter Terry, as personal as it is realistic. The same is generally true from the rest of the cast, but I can't say I particularly liked the entirety of the ensemble.
The character of the Priest is fiery, which is suitable, but at times he seems overly idealistic, even annoyingly so. Some of the same can be said for the character of Edie, who starts out strong and seems to spend the last haf of the film hanging off of Brando's arm as he looks vaguely off into the distance for no particular reason other than to emphasize the coolness of his letterman jacket look.
Still, the direction on this film is stellar. Very few punches are spared, literally in the end. The cinematography also aids in bringing some of the grit of the street life onto the screen with aplomb.
Bravo, mister cinematographer. Too bad the strong acting from Brando and the cinematography couldn't save the ending from being contrived and bland though...
This review of On the Waterfront (1954) was written by John M on 31 Jul 2017.
On the Waterfront has generally received very positive reviews.
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