On the Waterfront
On the Waterfront
An ex-prize fighter turned New Jersey longshoreman struggles to stand up to his corrupt union bosses, including his older brother, as he starts to connect with the grieving sister of one of the syndicate's victims.
.LAG reviewedJune 18, 2025
A demi-masterpiece. A bit melodramic. Maybe for my Internet-era sensibilities, this story felt more like a stage play on celluloid. The big story here is basic, well-crafted, and well-executed. And there are some really great acting performances throughout, from Eve Marie Saint, Karl Malden and, of course the legendary Marlon Brando... "I coulda been somebody, I coulda been a contender..."
These older b/w films definitely leaned in more on the actors' talents, and the soundtracks... today (2025) the narrative gaps seems to be filled more by special f/x.
Nevertheless, this film is worth studying, and appreciating.