William Bendix stars as a hardworking ship stoker in The Hairy Ape. He enjoys his job and is well liked among the crew. Susan Hayward, a beautiful socialite on board the cruise ship, is used to getting her way and manipulating anyone in her path. She sneaks below to watch the men working and sees William Bendix, sweating, dirty, shouting, and acting unlike anyone in her social circle ever has. She's obviously attracted to his masculinity, but when he senses this and starts walking towards her, she shouts, "Get away from me, you hairy ape!"
Susan's insult hurts Bill deeply, and the rest of the movie shows how her words affect him. He gives an emotional, heartfelt performance that shows the Susan Haywards of the world that "macho men" have feelings too. I kept thinking of Gerard Depardieu and how fantastic he would have been in the lead if Hollywood had made a remake in the 1980s or 1990s. Plus, since William Bendix usually played the sidekick, it's a great treat to watch him take the lead in a film and put so much talent into the role. If you're a fan of his, or Gerard's, or if you like social commentaries, check out this very well-acted drama.
Susan's insult hurts Bill deeply, and the rest of the movie shows how her words affect him. He gives an emotional, heartfelt performance that shows the Susan Haywards of the world that "macho men" have feelings too. I kept thinking of Gerard Depardieu and how fantastic he would have been in the lead if Hollywood had made a remake in the 1980s or 1990s. Plus, since William Bendix usually played the sidekick, it's a great treat to watch him take the lead in a film and put so much talent into the role. If you're a fan of his, or Gerard's, or if you like social commentaries, check out this very well-acted drama.