Directed by:
Richard FleischerScreenplay:
Earl FeltonCinematography:
Franz PlanerComposer:
Paul J. SmithCast:
Kirk Douglas, James Mason, Paul Lukas, Peter Lorre, Robert J. Wilke, Ted de Corsia, Harry Harvey, Percy Helton, Carleton Young, J.M. Kerrigan, Herb Vigran (more)Plots(1)
Kirk Douglas plays a trouble-shooting 19th century seaman, trying to discover why so many whaling ships have been disappearing of late. Teaming with scientist Paul Lukas and diver Peter Lorre, Douglas sets sail to investigate--and is promptly captured by the megalomaniac Captain Nemo (James Mason), who skippers a lavish, scientifically advanced submarine. (Park Circus)
(more)Reviews (2)
There is nothing to criticize about this Verne film in terms of special effects and we can only nod our heads in approval and write that the Oscar for visual effects was definitely deserved in 1954. The underwater shots are breathtaking, the Nautilus is perfectly detailed, the fight with the giant squid has no flaws, it is really exciting and not for a second does it look ridiculous. What the time of creation affected, however, is the plot. Or rather, the necessary evils it contains, especially the guitar-playing scene(s) and the antics of the trained sea lion (a typical Disney admixture). But I won't give it less than four stars.
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Great adaptation of Verne's work, which I wouldn't have expected from Americans. However, they had great actors, led by Mason and Douglas, who capture attention, but Lorre also does an excellent job, being true to his character. Thrilling, action-packed, yet still within the boundaries of being a family film. Great set designs and work with the exteriors.
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