Movie Reviews for The Old Man and the Sea

The Old Man and the Sea

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Movie Reviews of The Old Man and the Sea

Movie Review: Fine Hemingway adaptation
Summary: 4 Stars

Spencer Tracy gives a powerful performance as Santiago, the desperate old fisherman who must struggle to subdue and then keep the giant marlin that represents his salvation. Director John Sturges and screenwriter Peter Viertel retain much of Ernest Hemingway's symbolism, making of Santiago a Christ-like figure. A more apt Biblical analog might be Job; like him, Santiago endures the indignities and strife thrust upon him, but perseveres and endures while retaining his appreciation of nature and simple pleasures./

There is a lot of voice-over narration in this film. In addition to playing Santiago, Tracy reads excerpts from the novel to deepen and comment upon the action. In most cases, I would be annoyed by such pervasive intrusion, but it makes sense here because Santiago spends so much time alone. In addition, since the narration is drawn directly from the novel, it provides the added pleasure of a wonderful actor performing Hemingway's deceptively simple prose.

Movie Review: Like a dream
Summary: 4 Stars

This film produces an unusual effect which seems difficult to describe without giving it away, but I'll try. It is as if you are lying down with your eyes closed, listening to an old man tell a story. As the words of this gentle and noble soul carries you along with his feelings, your mind is filled with rich imagines, and you dare not move or speak in fear of breaking the spell. I think it's like a bedtime story, but for all ages. This film produces it's own unique effect that the experiencer takes with him. You will always remember the salty flavor of it. Tracy has perhaps never been so well placed, he contributes mightily to the effect.

Movie Review: Up to Par?
Summary: 4 Stars

Being one of Hemingway's most enduring works (it earned him a Nobel Prize in 1954), it was only a matter of time before it was put to film. Although John Sturges was given credit as director, two uncredited director's also worked on the film (Henry King & Fred Zinnemann); Which may be the reason this film falls far short of the novella. In any case, Spencer Tracy does bring the character to life, gives this film credibility and also brought him an Academy Award nomination. If your a Hemingway, Sturges or Spencer fan you definitely need this film in your collection.

Movie Review: Fine Movie about the Human Spirit
Summary: 4 Stars

I was 8 years old when my Mother and I went to see this movie. I remember how determined this man was to land a fish, any fish, not just a big one. Spencer Tracy was a fine actor and this film probably has been much overlooked, especially by the younger generation, whom rely on special effects more than true human qualities. It is a powerful performance and a testament to human strength , courage and perseverance. I'm glad it was released on DVD and I was able to see it again after many years.

Movie Review: innaccurate
Summary: 4 Stars

I loved the movie when i first saw it at age 11 and still do but the inaccuracy is the marlin footage used is the world record 1560lb Black Marlin caught off Cabo Blanco Peru (Pacific Ocean) by US angler Alfred Glassel in the 1950s.
Black Marlin are only caught in the Pacific NOT in the Caribbean or Atlantic Oceans!!!They should have used Blue Marlin footage which is the marlin species that inhabits Cuba. Still a fun movie!
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