Cast
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Jack Palance
as Joe Costa
Eddie Albert
as Erskine Cooney
Lee Marvin
as Clyde Bartlett
Robert Strauss
as Bernstein
Richard Jaeckel
as Snowden
Buddy Ebsen
as Tolliver
Strother Martin
as Ingersol
Jon Shepodd
as John Jackson
Peter van Eyck
as SS Captain
Steven Geray
as Otto
Jud Taylor
as Jacob R. Abramowitz
Louis Mercier
as Brouise
William Smithers
as Harry Woodruff
Jim Goodwin
as Ricks
Bing Russell
as Medic
Crew
Director
- Robert Aldrich
Producer
- Robert Aldrich
- Walter Blake
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Attack examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of a period setting that reflects societal issues of its time. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Robert Aldrich 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 character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 1956, 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 Attack took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 107 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 139 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 5 months to complete.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 13 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 1956, when this film was released:
- Rock and roll music was revolutionizing popular culture.
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- The film industry was dominated by major studios, with independent cinema still in its early development.
How This Film Stands Out
While Attack shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Hangmen Also Die!, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Attack subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.
While films like Dancing at Lughnasa and Salò, or the 120 Days of Sodom explore similar territory, Attack stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: September 19, 1956
- Runtime: 1h 47m
Where to Watch
