On the Waterfront Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

A washed-up boxer ratted on his friends in order to get the girl and also a job where he could be in charge.

🍿 On the Waterfront: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Introduction to the Corrupt Waterfront

The film opens with Terry Malloy, a former boxer, working as a longshoreman on the Hoboken docks controlled by the ruthless union boss Johnny Friendly. Friendly’s union operates through intimidation and violence, silencing anyone who dares to speak out against their corrupt practices. Terry is complicit in this system, benefiting from favors due to his brother Charley’s position as Friendly’s right-hand man.

Joey Doyle’s Murder and Terry’s Guilt

Terry unknowingly lures Joey Doyle, a fellow dockworker planning to testify against Friendly, to a rooftop where he is murdered. This event deeply affects Terry, especially when he meets Joey’s grieving sister, Edie. Edie’s unwavering search for justice and her growing relationship with Terry begin to awaken his conscience, forcing him to question his loyalty to Friendly and his role in Joey’s death. The presence of Father Barry, a compassionate priest, further challenges Terry’s moral compass.

Turning Point: Confronting his Brother

As Terry grows closer to Edie and is increasingly influenced by Father Barry, he is subpoenaed to testify before a crime commission investigating the union’s activities. Friendly, fearing Terry’s potential betrayal, tasks Charley with convincing him to remain silent. The pivotal scene in the taxi showcases Terry’s regret and resentment toward Charley for ruining his boxing career, culminating in the iconic line, “I could have been a contender.”

Choosing to Testify

Despite Charley’s threats and bribes, Terry decides to testify against Friendly, driven by his love for Edie and his growing sense of moral responsibility. This decision marks a complete break from his past and places him in grave danger. Charley is subsequently murdered for his failure to control Terry, further solidifying Terry’s resolve to expose Friendly’s corruption.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Terry Malloy (Marlon Brando): A former boxer and longshoreman grappling with his conscience as he confronts corruption and violence on the waterfront.
• Johnny Friendly (Lee J. Cobb): The ruthless and powerful union boss who controls the Hoboken waterfront through intimidation and violence.
• Father Barry (Karl Malden): A determined priest who encourages longshoremen to stand up against corruption and seek justice.
• Edie Doyle (Eva Marie Saint): The grieving sister of a murder victim who inspires Terry to confront the corruption on the waterfront and seek redemption.
• Charley Malloy (Rod Steiger): Terry’s older brother and Johnny Friendly’s right-hand man, torn between loyalty to his brother and his allegiance to the corrupt union.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Terry Malloy: “I coulda been a contender. I could’ve been somebody, instead of a bum, which is what I am.” – Terry expresses his regret and resentment to his brother Charley for ruining his boxing career.
• Father Barry: “If you don’t testify, you’re an accessory to it.” – Father Barry tries to convince Terry to testify against the corrupt union bosses.
• Johnny Friendly: “You’ll never work on the waterfront again!” – Johnny Friendly threatens Terry after he testifies against him, symbolizing his loss of power.
• Terry Malloy: “You know, this city’s full of wise guys.” – Terry says to Edie, highlighting the pervasive corruption and moral decay of the waterfront.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $910,000
• Domestic Gross: N/A
• Worldwide Gross: $9,600,000

💥 On the Waterfront Reviews

Personal Review

Wow, what a movie! I was completely engrossed from beginning to end. Brando’s performance is simply incredible, you can feel his internal struggle. The scene in the taxi with Rod Steiger is one of the most iconic and heartbreaking scenes in film history. The black and white cinematography really adds to the gritty and realistic feel. It made me think about standing up for what’s right, even when it’s hard. This movie truly sticks with you.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of classic American cinema”
  • “Viewers interested in social dramas and crime stories”
  • “Those who appreciate powerful acting performances”
  • “People interested in films exploring themes of morality and redemption”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Violence and brutality”
  • “Thematic elements of corruption and organized crime”
  • “Mild language”

Professional Reviews

• The New York Times: “Kazan’s direction is masterful, creating a stark and brutal vision of waterfront life. Brando delivers a career-defining performance, capturing the inner turmoil of a man caught between loyalty and morality. A cinematic triumph that resonates even today.
• Variety: “A powerful and uncompromising drama. The film boasts exceptional performances from the entire cast, especially Brando, Cobb and Malden. Kazan’s unflinching portrayal of corruption and the struggle for redemption makes this a must-see.
• The Guardian: “A landmark film that redefined the landscape of American cinema. On The Waterfront is unflinching and powerful. With incredible acting, On The Waterfront is one for the history books.

Audience Reactions

Brando’s acting is on a different level.: The raw and powerful performances from the entire cast is what makes the movie great.

The film is still relevant in today’s world.: The film’s themes of corruption and fighting for justice are timeless.

Overall Consensus: A timeless classic with powerful performances and a gripping story. Regarded as one of the greatest films ever made.

Awards

1. Academy Award (Best Picture)- 1955
2. Academy Award (Best Director)- 1955
3. Academy Award (Best Actor)- 1955
4. Academy Award (Best Supporting Actress)- 1955
5. Academy Award (Best Writing, Story and Screenplay)- 1955
6. Academy Award (Best Art Direction)- 1955
7. Academy Award (Best Cinematography, Black-and-White)- 1955
8. Academy Award (Best Film Editing)- 1955

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Elia Kazan used Karl Malden to direct a scene with Paul Newman in the Terry Malloy role to entice Marlon Brando, fearing he’d lose the part to Newman.”
• “The film is widely considered an act of expiation by Elia Kazan for naming names to the House Committee on Un-American Activities (HUAC) during the McCarthy era.”
• “Leonard Bernstein only wrote one film score in his career, and that was for On the Waterfront.”

🖥️ How to Watch On the Waterfront?

On the Waterfront is available for streaming on platforms like Prime Video (with a subscription or for purchase/rental), Apple TV (for purchase/rental), and through various other digital retailers. Check your local listings for television broadcasts and availability on demand. Physical copies (DVD, Blu-ray) are widely available for purchase online and in stores.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed On the Waterfront, you might like these similar films:

• The Godfather (1972): A crime saga exploring corruption, loyalty, and morality within a powerful organization.
• Serpico (1973): Tells the story of an honest cop who exposes corruption within the New York City Police Department.
• Raging Bull (1980): Another gritty, black-and-white film starring Robert De Niro as a boxer whose self-destructive behavior leads to his downfall; shares themes of regret and lost potential.
• The Departed (2006): A modern crime thriller with themes of betrayal, undercover work, and moral ambiguity within law enforcement and organized crime.

🛒 On the Waterfront Related Products

• On the Waterfront (The Criterion Collection) [Blu-ray]: A restored Blu-ray edition of the film, featuring special features such as interviews and documentaries. A must-have for collectors and fans.
• Elmer Bernstein’s Film Music Collection: On the Waterfront: A digital download of Elmer Bernstein’s complete score from the film. Re-experience the iconic and emotional music.
• On the Waterfront Movie Poster: A high-quality print of the original movie poster. Perfect for decorating a home theater or office.
• I Coulda Been a Contender T-Shirt: A T-shirt featuring the iconic quote from the film. A great way to show your appreciation for Marlon Brando and classic cinema.

🎧 Soundtrack

On the Waterfront features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Main Title” – performed by Leonard Bernstein
• “Theme From On the Waterfront” – performed by Leonard Bernstein

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

Martin Scorsese speaking about Marlon Brando

Dive into the mind of Martin Scorsese as he analyzes Marlon Brando’s legendary acting in ‘On the Waterfront’. This interview offers a fascinating perspective on Brando’s craft and the film’s enduring legacy.

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