On the Waterfront is a 1954 American crime drama film starring Marlon Brando, Eva Marie Saint and Karl Malden. The compelling and dynamic drama takes place on New York’s docks, where mobsters control the Union and the stevedores. The story revolves around Terry Malloy (Marlon Brando), an ex-prize fighter who becomes a longshoreman and is embroiled in violence. His brother (offered initially to Lawrence Tierney, but he asked for too much money, so the role went to Rod Steiger) is a crooked lawyer. Malloy must decide whether or not to turn informant. He meets a beautiful ex-nun (Eva Maria Saint ; Grace Kelly turned down Edie Doyle and decided to make Rear Window instead) and falls in love.
The film contains intense drama with sharp lines, emotions, sensational performances, a memorable ending, magnificent direction, and a musical score by Leonard Berstein. Great acting by the entire cast. The film’s most vital point is undoubtedly the acting. Marlon Brando gives a powerful and realistic performance. The film received three Oscar nominations for Outstanding Supporting Actor (Malden, Cobb, Steiger), Kazan as director, best film, best screenplay, best editing, best cinematography, and best art direction.
