On C List of Movie Reviews
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The Caine Mutiny (1954)
Rate:
9
Viewed:
7/12
7/12:
I once read in Marlon Brando's autobiography Songs My Mother Taught Me that he criticized Humphrey Bogart for his
one-dimensional acting.
Knowing that Marlon Brando had always been full of it, I must point out the kind of career Humphrey Bogart had had. He didn't
start out at the top. It took him over ten solid years of supporting roles to reach the A-level status. At the
same time, quality was written all over his face.
The differences between a master actor and a one-timer are twofold: the consistency to play different characters at a
high level and the ability to transform seemingly ordinary films into classics. That's why Humphrey Bogart set himself
apart from the pack. I have to admit Marlon Brando could never do it. Sure, he gave legendary performances in
several films, but he stunk in so many that were notorious flops. As for Humphrey Bogart, he was constantly
outstanding by churning out classic pictures one after another. In short, he was in a league of his own.
Nearing the end of Humphrey Bogart's career, The Caine Mutiny is the proof of his greatness. What a brilliant performance
he gave. Contrary to what people think, Queeg isn't the villain.
He's just a worn-out officer who has trouble quitting the service while being ahead. Hence, it's Fred MacMurray as
Keefer who's the Iago. I admit I've never liked the actor, but his personality serves the character very well.
Another performance that's as good as Bogart is given by José Ferrer as Greenwald the lawyer, helping
transform The Caine Mutiny into an intellectual picture that deals with the aftermath of the mutiny.
His drunken words at the end put each of the characters in perspective, giving me an idea that the film might be a masterpiece
after all. But I'm going to stop short of giving it a '10' because it's been uneven throughout.
The performances by everyone minus Bogart, Ferrer, and Van Johnson are off, and the stock
footage, which was supplied by U.S. Navy, is lame. Additionally, the romance interlude between Willie Keith and May is
unnecessary, failing to add anything to the overall plot.
All in all, because of Humphrey Bogart's Oscar-nominated performance, The Caine Mutiny is a classic picture.