Matialth Good concept, poorly executed.

Curapedi I cannot think of one single thing that I would change about this film. The acting is incomparable, the directing deft, and the writing poignantly brilliant.

Portia Hilton Blistering performances.

Dana An old-fashioned movie made with new-fashioned finesse.

marcslope Warners in the early 1940s excelled at a number of genres, but it rarely produced works as relentlessly downbeat as this very good adaptation of a Jack London novel. It's grim and pessimistic for virtually its entire running time, and rich in atmosphere--the Ghost, the troubled ship on which it's set, is palpably filthy, leaky, and wet, and its madman captain, the always excellent Edward G. Robinson, is a sadist, albeit capable of introspection and thoughtfulness. But what a miserable crew he commands, full of good character actors; even Barry Fitzgerald turns off his monotonous Irish twinkle for a change and paints a complex portrait. John Garfield, though given star billing, hasn't that much to do, and we spend more time with Alexander Knox, never again as interesting as he is here, as a well-to-do writer who lands unluckily on the Ghost. Ida Lupino, as a thief also unluckily aboard, broods exquisitely, and the camera never captured her better. The Korngold score, not his best, does have a maritime air about it, and Michael Curtiz paces it wonderfully--he knows when to slow down. As an exploration of man's venality, and in its willingness to provide a less-than-totally-happy ending, it goes deeper than many sea adventures from the same era, and it has atmosphere that stays with you for days.

utgard14 First-rate film based on the Jack London novel about sadistic sea captain Wolf Larsen (Edward G. Robinson), who rules with an iron fist. His authority is challenged by the presence of three new people on his ship -- a writer (Alexander Knox) and two fugitives (Ida Lupino, John Garfield). A gripping drama with some truly brilliant character work from an extraordinary cast, led by the incomparable Edward G. Robinson. I first saw this movie many years ago and Robinson's intense performance made me a fan of his for life. Great work from Alexander Knox, John Garfield, Ida Lupino, Howard da Silva, and Gene Lockhart. Special mention for scene-stealing Barry Fitzgerald, who is clearly having a field day with his part. Michael Curtiz's atmospheric direction and Robert Rossen's wonderful script are also big pluses. This is a wonderful movie that any classic film fan should enjoy. Old Hollywood filmmaking at its finest.

Rindiana Intensely atmospheric and well-crafted adaptation of Jack London's famous novel featuring a strong cast starring Edward G. Robinson in one of his greatest roles, wonderful black-and-white photography and an absorbing and fast-moving (though maybe a bit too condensed) storyline.Some narrative weaknesses here and there - what about Larsen's brother? - and some hasty character development prevent this solid movie from being a minor Warner classic.Still the best version of London's story as far as I know and miles ahead of Raimund Harmstorf's potato crushing.7 out of 10 foggy days at sea

MartinHafer I cannot in any way compare this to Jack London's novel, as I have never read it and would sooner eat glass than read another of his tales (after all, I've read "Heart of Darkness" and this is more than any person should have to read). However, it was a strange and dandy movie--and a wonderful showcase for Edward G. Robinson.The story begins ashore. While people are out trying to shanghai a crew for an accursed ship, John Garfield's character actually voluntarily goes--after slugging the guy trying to slip him a mickey. However, despite his presence throughout the film, he isn't the star or even co-star of the film despite the billing. The film is first and foremost Robinson's, as he plays a delightfully sadistic man who, like the story he adores ("Paradise Lost") would rather be boss on his horrible ship than serve anywhere else. Alexander Knox, while not a household name, is on hand as the co-star--an intellectual man who is forced to stay aboard and become the father-confessor, so to speak, for the sadistic Robinson. Somehow, despite being an evil and unrepentant man, Robinson NEEDS Knox to understand and somehow connect with him. It's a wonderfully bizarre character study--not just of Robinson, but others among the crew--most notably the amazingly vile and treacherous man played by the usually sweet Barry Fitzgerald.Overall, it's a fascinating old film that excels because it emphasizes characters and characterizations instead of the actual story--and gave the actors a wonderful chance to show their skills. Well worth seeing.