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The Caine Mutiny

The Caine Mutiny (1954)

Jun 24, 1954 2h 4m Drama War

When a US Naval captain shows signs of mental instability that jeopardize his ship, the first officer relieves him of command and faces court martial for mutiny.

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Directed by Edward Dmytryk

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Edward Dmytryk
Producer
  • Stanley Kramer

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, The Caine Mutiny 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 Edward Dmytryk 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 1954, the film exists within a cultural context that now offers viewers historical perspective on the social issues of that era. Its critical acclaim reflects its artistic achievements and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of The Caine Mutiny took approximately 7 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • With a budget of $2.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 124 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 148 minutes long.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The film contains approximately 1088 individual shots.
  • Some visual effects sequences took up to 4 months to complete.

Historical Context

  • In 1954, 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 The Caine Mutiny shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike Forrest Gump, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, The Caine Mutiny subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Liberation: Battle for Berlin and Liberation: The Last Assault explore similar territory, The Caine Mutiny 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: June 24, 1954
  • Runtime: 2h 4m
  • Budget: $2,000,000
  • Revenue: $21,750,000