On the Waterfront

Definition

On the Waterfront is a 1954 American crime drama film directed by Elia Kazan, known for its exploration of themes such as corruption, betrayal, and redemption. The film tells the story of a former boxer who struggles with his conscience while confronting mob influence on the docks of New Jersey. It highlights postwar themes of social justice and moral integrity, reflecting the societal tensions and changes in American values during the 1950s.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The film stars Marlon Brando as Terry Malloy, whose internal struggle symbolizes the conflict between personal morality and external pressure.
2. Elia Kazan's direction in On the Waterfront was influenced by his own experiences with accusations during the McCarthy era, making the film a form of personal expression regarding integrity.
3. The screenplay won an Academy Award for Best Original Story and is noted for its powerful dialogue and character development.
4. The famous line 'I coulda been a contender' reflects Terry's regret and lost potential, capturing the film's central themes of aspiration and failure.
5. On the Waterfront was a critical and commercial success, earning eight Academy Awards including Best Picture, further cementing its status as a significant work in American cinema.

Review Questions

• How does On the Waterfront reflect the postwar themes of corruption and redemption within its narrative?
  • On the Waterfront embodies postwar themes through its portrayal of corruption in labor unions and the moral dilemmas faced by its protagonist, Terry Malloy. As he grapples with his loyalty to his corrupt brother and the mobsters controlling the docks, Terry's journey towards redemption highlights the struggle for personal integrity in a corrupt environment. This conflict not only serves as a reflection of societal issues prevalent during the postwar era but also resonates with audiences seeking stories of courage and moral awakening.
• Discuss how On the Waterfront illustrates changing social values in America during the 1950s through its characters and plot.
  • On the Waterfront illustrates changing social values by showcasing characters who resist corrupt authority and seek justice. The film portrays Terry Malloy's evolution from a passive participant in wrongdoing to an active challenger of mob influence. This transformation reflects a growing awareness among Americans about the importance of individual responsibility, community solidarity, and standing up against injustice. Additionally, the film's focus on labor issues resonates with contemporary audiences grappling with economic inequality and ethical dilemmas.
• Evaluate the impact of On the Waterfront on American cinema and its role in shaping discussions about morality and social justice in film narratives.
  • On the Waterfront had a profound impact on American cinema by introducing complex characters who embodied moral ambiguity while tackling significant social issues like corruption and justice. Its exploration of individual conscience amidst societal pressures set a precedent for future films to delve deeper into ethical questions, shifting narratives away from simple good versus evil portrayals. By provoking discussions around morality and personal integrity, On the Waterfront not only influenced filmmakers but also encouraged audiences to reflect critically on their own values and societal structures, making it a cornerstone in American cinematic history.

Related terms

Method Acting: A technique of acting in which actors draw on their own emotions and experiences to create a more authentic performance.

McCarthyism: A political movement characterized by intense anti-communist sentiment and government repression during the early Cold War period, affecting many artists and intellectuals.

Film Noir: A cinematic genre that emphasizes moral ambiguity, complex characters, and a pessimistic view of society, often featuring crime and corruption.