Review of On the Waterfront (1954) by Marcel D — 03 Apr 2011

Everyone knows the classic confrontation scene where Brando tells us that he could have been a contender, that he could have been somebody but up until recently I didn't know what the heck he was talking about.

The context of this moment which proves itself to be pretty fantastic would be spoiling the film which surrounds Brando's character finding himself torn between being a lackey for the criminals that operate the wharf or finding redemption in ratting out his bosses. The catalyst comes when Eva Marie Saint's headstrong love-interest enters the picture, urging him to help her solve her brother's murder.

Like A Streetcar Named Desire, the film creates an excellent opportunity for Brando to show off his acting chops. While the supporting characters do well, it really is his show. His Terry Malloy is a lot more vulnerable than his Stanley despite them both sharing a working-class mentality. Malloy is an interesting figure, a man of high-morals and fed up with being called a bum despite the fact that he knows he is one.

The film's themes and its finale echo The Crucible and other texts where the single man stands up to the power. The potential of these moments are great and Brando's performance under Kazan's direction ensures a touching end to this story. Its a lovely little film that displays Brando's acting when his passion was boiling away.