I saw this movie a couple of months ago and for the most part, I concur with the earlier comments. I was very surprised to see the issue of fraternity hazing tackled in a fifties film, considering the fact that `social consciousness' wasn't politically correct until the seventies. To give fair warning, this film has rather anemic cinematography, but that's forgivable due to age. Sherman Rose, however, provided horrific editing -- even a `B' film deserves better treatment than the unforgivable butchering job he performed. Quite frankly, I could have done better with my pocketknife and cellophane tape.
Paul Henreid, however, should be commended for his directing ability because the quality of the acting is really good. Henreid proved he could spot talent by casting a young ensemble full of potential stars: Margaret `mother of Sally' Field, a beautiful Vera `Psycho' Miles, Kathleen `touch me and I'll scream' Hughes, Robert `the good scribe' Sherman, and of course, the most improbable villain for anyone born after the mid 1950s -- Russell `and the rest' Johnson. With the exception of maybe Field, I believe most of these actors got their big break with this film. I know Russell Johnson has said so.
The plot, which (of course) involves fraternity hazing to its extreme, pits Henreid (the good professor) against Johnson (the handsome, yet sadistic, frat leader). There are moments of both suspense and humor throughout. I, too, noticed Henreid's trademark of staring into the corner of the room with valor. You could almost see the halo over his head as easily as you could see the horns behind Johnson's. Add a good string arrangement and the symbolism is complete. Henreid's heavy accent is also quite humorous when you consider he was representing American suburbia. However, it was referenced in the film that Henreid was educated in Germany. Apparently Henreid knew that there definitely was a need for an explanation! I felt Field got a shortchanged a bit as Henreid's wife. Her role was significant, but I don't believe it was developed to its full potential. Hughes' performance as a rake was good -- both appalling and funny. Sherman and Miles played the young couple in love, and in a way I think Miles had more sense than anyone else did in the movie. There is also some truth to the sexual innuendo in the opening scenes with a barechested Sherman being hazed by his `brothers.' Johnson (who for once was introduced at the beginning of the credits), believe it or not, gave a strong performance and was very convincing as the villain (who was actually a big coward underneath). I believe Johnson was shipwrecked in more than one way on `Gilligan's Island.'
I don't think you'll find this movie at your local video store, but I do know it's currently available on videotape at moviesunlimited.com. It would be interesting to see this film remade for the twenty-first century. Recommended for Paul Henreid fans, `Gilligan's Island' fanatics, and film aficionados. Not recommended for members of PETA or the faint at heart.
