I managed to approach this film knowing practically nothing about it: Marlon Brando, black and white, "I could have been a contender." I actually wrongfully assumed it was a boxing moving after its reference in "Raging Bull"! But it was so much more; I really loved this movie!
The plot is a classic "rise up" story. It depicts the courage required and isolation endured in standing up to wrongdoing, and the feelings of love and regret that can refuel a man on the journey. The movie benefits by playing with these grandiose themes on a limited stage: A betrayed younger brother quarreling with his conscience over testifying against the mob-backed boss of the Longshoreman's Union. But in doing so, it tells a story that anyone who has felt fear or frustration within an organization of people can understand--be it a union, a community, a business, or an entire country hijacked by the Republican Party. LOL...I digress.
Marlon Brando famously delivered an exceptional performance and, even when you know exactly what he's going to say in the back of that cab, it is so critical and well delivered that you cant help but feel every word of it. But beyond Brando, every actor eared his or her paycheck on this one, especially Eva Marie Saint (Edie) and Karl Malden (Father Barry). And the writing was excellent. Layers of detail, from fully developed supporting characters, religious and avian symbols, and a plot that barreled forward without letting on where it was going, kept me engaged.
Perhaps this screening was evidence to me that expectation, or the lack thereof, remains a significant contributing factor in one's enjoyment of a film. After all, this is one of my favorite films of the project so far. As is the case, it's with some hesitation, but with full honesty, that I highly recommend popping a bowl of popcorn and sitting back to watch this one. Do it.