rsgwynn1

Several reviews mention Social Darwinism or even Nietzsche in regard to the ethical questions this film raises. I'd add Existentialism, very au courant at the time, to the mix. The sinking is a good example of the absurd: a luxury liner sunk by an old mine still floating around years after the war. In the absence of God and any pre-existing rules, what is Tyrone Power to do? Risk losing all or try to save a few? He doesn't want to act in a merciless fashion, but if he doesn't act, well . . . I love the way the cast comes together to thank him for his bold choice and immediately turn their backs on him when a rescue horn is heard. Incidentally, this is not a true story (as the film claims) but is based on a couple of historical incidents. Best lines: General: Why save the dog?

Power: Because we can't eat you.

Rutger Hauer, as the Commodore, gives his greatest performance since Blade Runner. If you thought Roy Batty was strange, wait till you see him here. He actually seems to achieve what Batty is grasping for at the end of BR. I find it strange that the critic's totally overlooked this "lesson of the master"; Hauer was not nominated for any awards!