And the Best Picture goes to....

“On the Waterfront”, primarily shot in Hoboken, New Jersey, serves not only as a morality tale about corruption and redemption but also unfolds as a deeper love story. Marlon Brando and the rest of the cast deliver powerful performances, making the Oscar wins and nominations truly deserved.

Brando plays Terry Malloy, a man who “could have been a contender” if he hadn’t sacrificed his boxing career by taking a series of dives in exchange for comfortable jobs at the dock. His guilty conscience weighs heavily on him after he is involved in the death of a fellow dockworker who was about to testify against the union bosses. Throughout most of the film, Brando’s character wrestles with inner conflict, appearing tortured and confused about his actions and the choices he must make going forward.

This is Eva Marie Saint’s first film role, and her feelings toward Terry are deeply conflicted. She is horrified when she learns about his involvement in her brother’s death. Elia Kazan brilliantly directs the scene where Terry confesses his part in her brother’s death. Instead of hearing the actual words of confession, the audience only hears background noise from the harbor, allowing the characters’ silent reactions to say it all.

Karl Malden’s performance should not be overlooked; he plays an impassioned priest who tries to inspire the longshoremen to stand up against their bosses. The crucifixion speech he delivers in the hold of the freighter is particularly powerful. Despite being pelted by the longshoremen, he remains undeterred. In many ways, I envision him as the little angel on Brando’s shoulder, urging him to do the right thing.

The film, however, isn’t without its flaws; the ending left me questioning the realism of Brando’s confrontation with Johnny Friendly, played by Lee J. Cobb. How could such a fierce struggle in such a confined space not result in either falling into the Hudson River? This moment stood out to me as somewhat implausible, yet it doesn’t overshadow the film’s overall impact.

In summary, *On the Waterfront* delivers a compelling story about redemption, sacrifice, and the fight against corruption, backed by outstanding performances. Despite a few quibbles, it’s a film that remains relevant in discussions of morality and justice.