On the Waterfront -- What Makes This Movie Great? (Episode 87)

[@bigbandsrock1]

I sob at the end every time. I’m 69 so have watched it numerous times in my life. I watched most of it again tonight and stumbled upon your post. Great job imparting to folks reasons to watch this brilliant film! Brando & Eva Marie Saint are mesmerizing! A giant classic to treasure! Turn off the TV people and watch something with real substance. We need a Terry today, I’ll tell ya! Thanks again for spotlighting this fantastic film who’s relevance is timeless!

[@LearningaboutMovies]

you're welcome.

[@skippylance1591]

"On the Waterfront" has long been one of my top 3 favorite all-time films--for many reasons, as named here. The superlative acting, the engaging writing...you name it; everything was so well done. Even like the music score a lot: it fits the action perfectly.

[@bev9708]

I had never seen it and today I saw it was playing at my local cinema so I jumped on the opportunity!! I had always heard other actors raving about MB’s performance here … how lucky am I to see it for the first time on the big screen!!!! ❤

[@AlonsoRules]

Marlon Brando was an absolute master of his chosen craft

[@LearningaboutMovies]

indeed.

[@morgantylerv9406]

I so Agree, Anthony.

[@FilmThePoliceFTP]

Why do we always speak in terms of who's best who's worst... thats part of the sickness in America. Acting is a social lubricant, we couldn't survive in this life for a second if we couldn't act.

[@raphaelkavanagh6950]

Marlon Brando, Lee j Cobbe, Karl Malden, Rod Steiger, Eva Marie Saint what a lineup, a super group in today's language. Saw it in the cinema several times and wanted a jacket just like Brando's. Have the DVD and my own projector now. Time has come to watch again after watching this review.

[@phillipsmom6252]

Eva Marie Saint won best actress for this movie. She is 99 years old now. 👍

[@blancheH7]

She's gorgeous here and in North by Northwest

[@thehatergamer2376]

This is probably my favorite analysis you've done for a film on your channel! It made me like and appreciate the film that much more.

[@LearningaboutMovies]

thank you!

[@richardpaz8803]

This is one I never get tired of rewatching. It is truly a gem! I admire its theological richness. There was a time when it was commonly recommended to seminary students. I just love when the priest (Karl Malden) confronts Lee J. Cobb and his band of henchmen. His words are so powerful and dynamic. It's a homily full of spiritual dynamite and great truths. It's a scene that never ceases to inspire me. It is so well written. Matthews, I really appreciate your channel. Your reviews and observations are always helpful. Watching "great movies" is a good investment!

[@johnmartin7919]

Leonard Bernstein's one and only film score, and a magnificent one at that - Kazan was so lucky to have his involvement. Bernstein decided he didn't enjoy the process of writing for film so never did another, more's the pity.

[@dirkbenson8155]

This movie was shot in Hoboken, New Jersey. While going to college across the river in Manhattan (Hunter), I was fortunate enough to watch my first screening of this film in the warehouse at the end of the film where they lead Brando’s character. (1983) It was magical. It was a brilliant film. What a place to see it. (The mob boss’ pit had long been gone by then.) As is the warehouse now. But, ‘Wow!’ to quote a line.

[@countalucard4226]

Years before cable tv and VCRs I would go to NYC when The Regency (I believe was the name) I would go and see OTW. I always left so happy after seeing it again. Just the music while showing the opening credits was fabulous.

[@kevzsabz8253]

Dr. Josh sorry if i didn't comment on your videos lately. My my father was in the hospital and he just died today. I'm still depressed right now. Thank you very much for always interacted with me when i comment. You've always one of those people who have a genuine heart. I will watch a marathon on my dad's favourite films. This film is one of them. This was his favourite Marlon Brandon performance. 😥😥😥

[@LearningaboutMovies]

I'm very sorry to hear that. Sorry for you. may he rest in peace.

[@kevzsabz8253]

@@LearningaboutMovies Thanks Dr. Josh ❤❤❤

[@alexandervue9464]

May he rest in peace

[@robinstevenson6690]

Cobb was also one of the main, featured actors in 12 Angry Men, which is regarded by many as one of the greatest films ever made.

[@nimascolari1508]

The Taxi scene is one of the greatest pice of Acting, cinema photography, acting and scripts ever. It's phenomenal. The caged birds are a reflection of him. Potential to soar but limited by his environment and those around him.

[@robinstevenson6690]

Lee J. Cobb was a magnificent actor, and he won an Academy Award for his performance in On The Waterfront. One of the great actors of the 20th century.

[@charlesoshea4803]

Cobb was great in this movie, but he did not win the Oscar. Cobb, Karl Malden and Rod Steiger were all nominated but must have split the vote to allow Edmund O'Brien win for The Barefoot Contessa, in what must have been a shock at the ceremony.

[@lennysmom]

I liked the symbolism of the jacket (coat/mantel) and how it ends up being given to Terry.

[@LearningaboutMovies]

yes! does it have to do with Joseph? I had never thought about it before.

[@lennysmom]

@@LearningaboutMovies I never thought about Joseph, just that whoever wore the jacket stands up to tell the truth.

[@JazzyHorn]

On The Waterfront is the greatest film ever made, hands down, and I have felt this way for my entire adult life. Perfect from the sudden beginning to the inspired ending. Legendary performances, music, cinematography, dialog, everything. Great synopsis of the film itself. I was surprised that you didn't mention the McCarthy hearings and Kazan's statement through this film about his testimony in front of the HUAC and subsequent treatment by the Hollywood establishment.

[@kevzsabz8253]

Marlon Brandon gives an electrifying and legendary performance on this Elia Kazan's thought-provoking melodrama. This film in particular helped permanently alter the cinematic landscape. I give this a 9.4/10. Overall this is one of the most iconic films of the 1950s. 😊😊👍👍

[@LearningaboutMovies]

yes!

[@jimiboii209]

A feel good movie…. Very strong message. Me Working on the docks. This definitely hits home in ways. I’m 30

[@GregHuffman1987]

reading a pauline kael book and she says on the waterfront was ambitious but that it was inconsistent and the director didn't understand the character

[@aspfproductions]

You know its a great movie when you can rewatch it again and again. Great review, definitely one of my favorites too!

[@VincenzoPentangeli]

Well written, directed, & acted. You don't see any of that anymore.

[@MS-xi7zg]

Excellent analysis of a fantastic film. This is a movie you can go back and watch again and again and still get something from it.

[@LearningaboutMovies]

thank you.

[@Kaizoku-o_PirateKing]

Another fantastic review of a new personal favourite from one of my favourite channels!

[@LearningaboutMovies]

Thank you!

[@debbyb7337]

Thank you for your video summary of On The Waterfront. My priest talked about the movie this morning in his homily. I will have to check out the movie. Cheers

[@LearningaboutMovies]

you're welcome.

[@skippylance1591]

"On the Waterfront" is one of my top 3 movies of all time(!)--the other two being "Citizen Kane" and "The Seven Samurai."

[@RichardRamsey-su7he]

My father died last Sunday, he was 89. His first date with my mom was the movie on the Waterfront. He was 20 years-old, 2 years later they were married.

[@nimascolari1508]

RIP pops. Wish you and your family all the best, man.

[@ajgiacobbe2859]

Great review...this movie is my all time favorite....i watch it whenever I can..and the cab scene always hits me in the heart.....

[@LearningaboutMovies]

thank you.

[@roaminronin7818]

Thank you. Very spot on. This is one of my favorites. The conflict & acting are among the best. Iconic.

[@LearningaboutMovies]

you're welcome. Brando was and still is one of the best.

[@travisgray8376]

Yeah Marlon Brando is one of the greatest and when I have a top list of Actos Brando is always at the top he brought method acting to mainstream audiences I love on the waterfront great film

[@LearningaboutMovies]

amen.

[@morgantylerv9406]

Most Definitely.

[@bOmBAsTiK]

I really love your shot analysis and explanation of the "elevation changes" which I've never noticed before. Not as big a fan of this film thematically nor the overhyped performances (good, not great imo), but your visual analysis was superb. I realized that even Terry's plaid jacket resembles a metaphorical "cage" after watching your clip. For me, the taxi scene plays false, the soundtrack is overbearing and Lee J. Cobb gave the overall strongest performance. But I prefer Streetcar, Face in the Crowd, East of Eden and Splendor in the Grass over this melodramatic fare; although your video definitely pointed out some elements I hadn't considered. Great work, sir!!

[@Katarzyna-lx3fo]

Cudowny film, mam na DVD...ponadczasowy, humanistyczny, głęboko poruszający ❤

[@cruddddddddddddddd]

Awesome analysis. Haven’t seen this in too many years.

[@LearningaboutMovies]

thank you.

[@seanohare5488]

Very well said this film has such Great acting direction powerful and inspirational because it has Christian redemption

[@kubricklynch]

Great review! Love this film.

[@LearningaboutMovies]

thank you.

[@eldorados_lost_searcher]

A review of On thw Waterfront that doesn't bring up the cab ride? It's a bold strategy, Cotton, let's see if it works out. Seriously, thanks for talking about this underappreciated gem. Haven't seen it in too long, and searched for a review to see what sort of discussion is out there regarding it.

[@LearningaboutMovies]

I hope KZbin has some discussion about this great movie and helps people like you.

[@eldorados_lost_searcher]

@@LearningaboutMovies Only thirteen so far, and yours is the most recent.

[@unchainedwiththecapt]

Watched this one for the first time last night. Great movie. I noticed Fred Gwynne was in it, but he didn't have any lines.

[@Madbandit77]

Him and Martin Balsam as one of the two Waterfront Crime Commission investigators. They're both uncredited in the film.

[@classicmodernfilms7602]

I checked this film in my last semester psychology class for the theme of kindness. Nice review man. I’ve been out for so long. My bad if I’ve been to quiet.

[@LearningaboutMovies]

thank you. Welcome back!

[@hadinasrallah8928]

This and akira Kurosawas red beard gave me the same feeling. A meditation on being kind

[@Woozler554]

Very good analysis, and I agree 100% with your point regarding the religious overtones in this film. There is one rather obvious religious reference in this film that no one seems to mention. It comes up in the very last scene. Terry (the Christ figure) is abandoned by all of his friends and co-workers (disciples). He is beaten bloody by the mob (Romans). Yet the priest (Father) urges him to get on his feet and 'finish what he started'. He does so, taking and carrying his hook (cross). He climbs up the ramp (road to Calvary), stumbles (as Christ did), but completes his journey, with all the workers now following him.

[@LearningaboutMovies]

thank you

[@Danish_Panja]

I really really love this film ❤️

[@jimmyj1969]

Elmer Bernstein's music being "a little bombastic" is an understatement!

[@LearningaboutMovies]

heh.

[@vin.handle]

That is Leonard Bernstein. Elmer did To Kill a Mockingbird, among other films.

[@jimmyj1969]

@@vin.handle No, I'm reffering to Elmer. His style was often suitable (especially during 1950s), but often not.

[@vin.handle]

@@jimmyj1969 I take your point.

[@sanidhyasingh227]

I have been reading Elia Kazan's autobiography A life. I think he is very frank and genuine writing about his life. He writes that On the waterfront was most closest and important to him. In the McCarthy era, he named many of his colleagues which ruined many lives. He was blacklisted and scorned for his actions. This film was a very strong emotional reply to those accusations he faced and in a way he tried to vindicate his own decision. I watched the film after reading the book and it is glaring to see how much influenced it is by his own life. Great movie, no doubt but it seemed like a shallow cowardly justification for his actions. I didn't like it because it is a celebration of a betrayal and inhuman act. Elia Kazan has influenced and altered cinema and acting more than any other individual in 20th century. He popularized the stanislavisky system of method acting, founded the actor's studio and introduced Actors like Marlon Brando and James Dean. A Streetcar named desire and East of Eden are masterpieces but On the waterfront is kind of conflicting because of its motivation. His autobiography is one of the most fearless and earnest I have read. It is a must read for anyone intrested in Cinema.

[@LearningaboutMovies]

yeah, and Kazan is a great filmmaker who might be underrated today, yet his films are pretty fresh. Thank you, great comment.

[@sanidhyasingh227]

Also I just wanted to know your opinion on David Lynch's Dune.

[@LearningaboutMovies]

I don't have a strong one. It's in the wake of Star Wars, so it looks like all of the imitators, and Lynch wasn't let loose enough. Is there a Director's Cut? If so, I've never seen it, and that would be the one to try.

[@DominicR-y5d]

Eva Marie Saint just turned 100.

[@Castilda0311]

Karl Malden was fantastic as a cotton gin owner in Baby Doll, a Kazan black comedy. Because of the sexual themes it was condemned by the Catholic National Legion of Decency. One of the most notorious films of the fifties.

[@paulorlando5877]

I consider it the greatest film of the 50's maybe all time.

[@philipmcritchie7309]

Loving your vids man. Similar tastes. Have you done a definitive top 25 or similar ??.

[@LearningaboutMovies]

thank you. no, not a video yet. Whenever the new BFI Sight and Sound poll is released, I'll definitely cover that and give my vote (if I had one). Here's my letterboxd list of favorites: letterboxd.com/joshmatthews/list/my-favorite-movies/

[@homoousias]

Great analysis 🤓

[@LearningaboutMovies]

thank you.

[@asanfeizi1335]

The film "On the Waterfront" was not actually made but discovered.

[@jaime8318]

You mentioned the acting. People even mention Marlon Branco's "method acting." Method actors tend to make small choices, trying to be subtle. They think that the most highly skilled actors are subtle. It's b.s. It's all measured decisions trying to be "natural". "Natural" is b.s. Look at all the great BOLD choices all of these actors make. Btw, all of these actors in this movie came from the theater. Lee J. Cobb worked with the legendary Group Theater. In acting, people think that you have to change acting style for the camera. Again, look at the bold acting choices all of these legends make in this great movie.

[@LearningaboutMovies]

thanks, though I never care what method any actor uses. As long as it fits with the movie's vision to create a complex work of art.

[@morgantylerv9406]

2 words make this movie Great, Marlon Brando!

[@LearningaboutMovies]

that is usually the case. However, he was in a lot of stinkers.

[@CH0SEN_0NE]

Awesome video. You have Pixar character eyes, dude lol.

[@LearningaboutMovies]

thanks, I think.

[@CH0SEN_0NE]

@@LearningaboutMovies I meant it as a compliment. You just have big and expressive eyes.

[@ramonvazquez2588]

Muy buena escenas sin palabras musica muy buena

[@FilmThePoliceFTP]

One thing. I dont think Terry claiming he coulsve beaten Wilson and had a championship shot was delusional thinking. Even the people that watched him fight (IE the comission guy whom he talks to on the roof) said it looked like Terry was holding Wilson up for most of the fight.

[@TheChicKenHuman]

U really need to add subtitles in videos. Great fan of your videos

[@LearningaboutMovies]

Thank you. KZbin does that automatically. You should be able to turn them on.

[@TheChicKenHuman]

@@LearningaboutMovies thanks for quick response. But in this video caption is available only in indonesian

[@LearningaboutMovies]

I don't know why. KZbin generates English-language captions for all videos. I'm not sure why you can't turn them on.

[@boncybenny9596]

Where i can download the movie?

[@LearningaboutMovies]

go to letterboxd and look up the movie. They'll tell you where it is streaming.

[@mattwade2629]

Fantastic analysis. I've seen this movie a dozen times and somehow missed obvious Catholic/Christ-figure element. I always thought that Kazan made this film in response to the blowback he received from his peers for giving up names of "reds" in Hollywood to the McCarthy Commision. Maybe that's just the standard, surface, introductory film class explanation. Anyway, just discovered your channel and loving the content. By the way, did Karl Malden ever play a role where he wasn't a member of the clergy?

[@LearningaboutMovies]

thank you, Matt. Yes, you are surely right that the McCarthy Commission is yet another angle on this movie. Malden did play many diverse roles. On this channel I have videos on two movies in which he was the villain: "One-Eyed Jacks" and "The Hanging Tree." Plus, of course, "Patton."

[@craigdgriffiths6206]

Hey Dr Josh, do you have any plans to do literature review videos?

[@LearningaboutMovies]

do you mean of written literature? I do have a bunch of videos of me teaching literature classes, though the camerawork is just my laptop cam and you can't see the students. I have kicked around starting a literature channel, ala this movie channel, but the problem is time and workload. I could just upload the videos I have, but the quality would be quite different than what this movie channel is currently producing.

[@craigdgriffiths6206]

@@LearningaboutMovies Thanks for your reply. Yes, I mean written literature. It would be good to see your reviews. All the best.

[@monzersaid]

They were in New York???? I though they was from Hoboken New Jersey

[@LearningaboutMovies]

this could be correct. Please make this correction if the video made an error.

[@paulorlando5877]

Acting,story,gritty location shots,but mostly acting.

[@jimmyj1969]

Great movie (objectively speaking) but too mush obvious christian preaching, too. Another similar movie I like is Martin Ritt's "Edge of the city".

[@LearningaboutMovies]

this in a period where Hollywood really caters to the massive Catholic movie-going audience in the US. I guess somebody had to save the dockworkers from the mob. Interesting that in the Godfather movies, released twenty years later, the church is just there as backdrop with no power (or no will?) to do much about the mafia. thanks for that other recommendation!

[@alexandervue9464]

Do you have letterbox?

[@LearningaboutMovies]

Yes, should be linked in the description.

[@MichaelWallace-u5n]

Slapnutt

[@TamSpreckley-ot9zw]

I always wonder why all the dockworkers, who clearly outnumbered Johny Friendlys small band of thugs, didn’t storm the bands retreat and beat the crap out of them, run them out of town. Especially after the murder of Joey. It’s a great film but it’s always bothered me that the few can make the mass cower with fear. Hundreds of stevedores or a few thugs. My money would be on the stevedores. Still Bud was brilliant in it.

[@amazingcarson]

Greatest Film of All Times!

[@LearningaboutMovies]

many such opinions.