Cast
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Clark Gable
as Cmdr, Richardson
Burt Lancaster
as Lt. Jim Bledsoe
Jack Warden
as Yeoman 1st Class Mueller
Brad Dexter
as Cartwright
Don Rickles
as Quartermaster 1st Class Ruby
Nick Cravat
as Russo
Joe Maross
as Kohler
Mary LaRoche
as Laura Richardson
Eddie Foy III
as Larto
Rudy Bond
as Sonarman 1st Class Cullen
Jimmy Bates
as Jessie (uncredited)
Joel Fluellen
as Bragg (uncredited)
Ken Lynch
as Frank (uncredited)
H.M. Wynant
as Corpsman Hendrix (uncredited)
Teru Shimada
as Japanese Submarine Commander (uncredited)
Crew
Director
- Robert Wise
Producer
- Harold Hecht
- James Hill
Reviews
CinemaSerf
This superior wartime submarine story is about an American captain (Gable) who seeks to avenge the loss of an earlier ship to a Japanese destroyer by perfecting a very difficult "bow shot" technique that would enable him to torpedo this fast moving enemy head on. Burt Lancaster portrays his popular XO who ought, originally, to have had that command but has been passed over; and the film depicts the evolution of their taut and mistrusting relationship. Gable is on good form as his character treads a very thin line between reason and obsession and Lancaster works hard to keep himself and the crew under control. The direction is tense and the chemistry between these two men works really well. This is more than a post-war grandstanding picture; it does touch on the psychology of command and of grief, and is well worth an hour and a half of your time.
Feb 24, 2023
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Run Silent, Run Deep 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 Wise 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 1958, 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 Run Silent, Run Deep took approximately 4 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 93 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 148 minutes long.
- The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.
- The screenplay went through 12 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
- The film contains approximately 1054 individual shots.
Historical Context
- In 1958, when this film was released:
- The civil rights movement was gaining momentum in the United States.
- 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 Run Silent, Run 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 Wake Me When the War Is Over, which focuses more on action than character development, Run Silent, Run Deep offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Drei Tage auf Leben und Tod - aus dem Logbuch der U.C.1 and Mirror explore similar territory, Run Silent, Run Deep stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.
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: March 27, 1958
- Runtime: 1h 33m
Where to Watch
