#19 On the Waterfront

Title: On the Waterfront

A.F.I. Ranking: 19

Director: Elia Kazan

Starring: Marlon Brando, Karl Malden, Lee J. Cobb, Eva Marie Saint

Release Year: 1954

Brief Synopsis: Terry Malloy at one point thought he would be a prize winning fighter, but is now working the docks of the corrupt John Friendly. After witnessing a murder, Malloy befriends a priest and the sister of the murder victim. Malloy begins to realize that if he does not stand up to the corrupt union and mob bosses, he is just as guilty as the people doing the killing, so he decides to testify to uncover the truths of his boss, and putting his own life in danger.

My Thoughts: Real, gritty, powerful can pretty much sum up any Marlon Brando film and this one is no exception. The movie, which was based on the real life experiences of its director Elia Kazan, was filmed on real east coast docks, streets, and roof tops, and some of the actors were real life ex-fighters taken from the streets to make this movie as real as possible, and it pays off. Every single scene is gritty and powerfully acted. Marlon Brando has the audience on the edge of their seats constantly wondering what he is going to do next. Brando always amazes me because no matter how tough the character he is playing is, he always has a sweet boyish charm that shines through. This well deserving movie won 8 Academy Awards including best picture.

“You don't understand. I coulda had class. I coulda been a contender. I coulda been somebody, instead of a bum, which is what I am, let's face it.”

Rating: Top of the List!