On this day, July 28, 1954, the highly acclaimed film “On the Waterfront” was released, presenting a gripping portrayal of union corruption. According to Britannica.com, it featured one of Marlon Brando’s most memorable performances. The movie received widespread praise for its acting, directing, and overall craftsmanship.
Critics such as A.J. Weiler from The New York Times hailed “On the Waterfront” as moviemaking of exceptional quality in a review published on July 29, 1954. The Criterion Channel, an independent streaming service that showcases classic and contemporary films, described the film as a raw and emotionally charged narrative about Terry Malloy, a former prizefighter turned longshoreman, played by Marlon Brando. Malloy finds himself entangled in a moral crisis, torn between his loyalty to the mob-connected union boss Johnny Friendly (portrayed by Lee J. Cobb) and the authorities eager to expose their corruption.
The movie went on to achieve great success, winning eight Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Supporting Actress (Eva Marie Saint), and Best Screenplay. One of the most iconic quotes from the film is Terry’s lament to his brother Charlie: “You don’t understand! I coulda had class. I coulda been a contender. I could’ve been somebody, instead of a bum, which is what I am.”
Directed by Elia Kazan, “On the Waterfront” captivates audiences with its gritty and emotional portrayal of characters. The City University of New York praises Kazan’s exceptional directing, highlighting the famous car scene between Terry and Charlie as one of the most significant moments in cinematic history. The close-up camera angles capture the raw expressions of the characters, while the accompanying sad music intensifies the heart-wrenching emotion.
Screenwriter Budd Schulberg drew inspiration from Malcolm Johnson’s Pulitzer Prize-winning series of articles on longshoremen and union corruption titled “Crime on the Waterfront” for the story and screenplay. Schulberg conducted extensive research on the New York and New Jersey waterfronts, including attending the New York Waterfront Crime Hearings, providing authentic and gripping details for the script’s climax.
The film’s impact and significance were recognized when it was selected for preservation in the National Film Registry in 1989. “On the Waterfront” continues to be celebrated as a cinematic masterpiece that explores themes of morality, betrayal, and personal redemption.
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