Cast
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Crew
Director
- Irving Allen
Producer
- Arthur Lake
- Irving Allen
- James S. Burkett
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
This high-octane Adventure/Action film balances spectacular sequences with character-driven moments. Unlike many films in the genre, 16 Fathoms Deep distinguishes itself through a unique visual style and creative action choreography.
Director Irving Allen brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1948, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of 16 Fathoms Deep took approximately 6 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 82 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 102 minutes long.
- The cast underwent specialized training for 6 weeks before filming began.
- The screenplay went through 11 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The film contains approximately 2229 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1948, when this film was released:
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- Television was becoming a dominant form of home entertainment.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While 16 Fathoms Deep shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike The Old Man and the Sea, which focuses more on action than character development, 16 Fathoms Deep subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like They Called Him Bulldozer and The Cave explore similar territory, 16 Fathoms Deep stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its bold artistic choices and willingness to challenge viewer expectations, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: July 25, 1948
- Runtime: 1h 22m
