Cast
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Crew
Director
- Jean Negulesco
Producer
- Samuel G. Engel
Reviews
CinemaSerf
I can't help but wonder if this might not have worked better in black and white? As it is, it's a rather sterile and distinctly unsexy treasure hunt with a scantily clad, but off-form Sophia Loren in the role of sponge diver ("Phaedra"). On one such dive, she discovers a statue of a young boy riding a dolphin, nestled amongst the weeds. Desperate for some cash, she soon has the interest of the honourable "Dr. Calder" (Alan Ladd) and the unscrupulous "Parmalee" (Clifton Webb) vying for her attention - and for the location of this legendary work of art. It's not that it's a bad film, this - its just that there is way too much dialogue and nowhere near enough action. Webb's manoeuvrings are the highlight, but Ladd just looks like he is here (Greece) for a suntan. Geoffrey Keen turns in quite an engaging performance as the dipsomaniac doctor "Hawkins" and it has a pleasing soundtrack with the odd dance from Miss Loren before an ending that though right and proper, I found a bit, well, twee! Anyway, the cinematography looks nice and there is some good underwater photography to admire, but it's still all a pretty forgettable adventure with nobody really firing on all cylinders.
Apr 26, 2022
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Boy on a Dolphin 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 Jean Negulesco 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 1957, 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 Boy on a Dolphin took approximately 4 months from pre-production to final cut.
- The final cut of the film runs for 111 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 144 minutes long.
- Some visual effects sequences took up to 8 months to complete.
- The musical score contains over 33 unique compositions.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
Historical Context
- In 1957, when this film was released:
- The Cold War was intensifying, influencing global politics and 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 Boy on a Dolphin shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Scrooge, which focuses more on action than character development, Boy on a Dolphin offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like A Christmas Carol and To All the Boys: Always and Forever explore similar territory, Boy on a Dolphin 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: April 19, 1957
- Runtime: 1h 51m
