On the Waterfront (Third time)
Regardless of whether it was made so as it vindicate those who 'ratted' on their peers during the McCarthy era, the story of OTW - an ex-prize fighter turned longshoreman struggles to stand up to corrupt union bosses - has dated well and can now be viewed today beyond the context in the era in which it was produced in. Much has been said of Marlon Brando's preformance as longshoreman (and ex-boxer) Terry Molloy and rightfully so - Brando comes across as a complete natural in the role, and the widely renowned "I coulda been a contenda" scene is pivotal in our affection for the character, and understanding how his failed dreams got him to where he was - and Brando and Rod Steiger, playing Charley, brilliantly convey it with real heart.

As good as Brando is, it would be amiss not to mention the well-cast supporting roles, particularly Karl Malden are the morally righteous Father Barry who is continually determined to make a stand against Johnny Friendly and his gang despite all opposition. Eva Marie Saint also brings an innocent - and beautfiul - quality to her Edie Doyle, reluctantly falling for Terry at first, and comforting him in his time of need. The on-screen couple, as Terry and Edie, share a genuine chemisty. Lee J. Cobbs is also wonderfully mean-spirited and cruel as Johnny Friendly, and his final confrontation with Brando is just one of the many great moments in an emotionally up-lifting ending.

Kazan's confident direction is complimented nicely by Leonard Bernstein booming and magnificent musical score. A true classic of American cinema.