In this black and white film, an ex-prize fighter turned longshoreman, Marlon Brando, struggles with his conscience after he witnesses the murder of another longshoreman, a murder that was ordered by his mob leader boss. As this movie was filmed in 1954, I wondered why the director decided to film this movie in black and white. I think part of the reason why this movie is filmed in b&w is to enhance the gritty and dark nature of the story. The working and living conditions appear bleak when the sun does not sparkle as it is reflected off the water or the flowers and lush vegetation appear monotone in front of the apartment complex. Depicting the rough living conditions of the longshoremen is a key element of the story; this helps explain why the longshoremen comply with the D&D (dumb and deaf) rule – they have to keep their jobs to survive and feed themselves and they turn a blind eye to the corruption of the mob union leaders.
Overall, a powerful movie with a few dramatic shots (the one where Brando and the girls are running down the alley and the truck comes around the corner!).
Quote on repeat in my head: I coulda had class. I coulda been a contender. I coulda been somebody, instead of a bum, which is what I am, let's face it. It was you, Charley.
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