thinker1691 Review of The Enemy Below

The Enemy Below (1957)

" If he makes the same mistake, . . . . he will be vulnerable "

[8/10 · 25 September 2007]

In the middle of the Atlantic ocean, during the Second World War, two experienced sea veterans confront each other. The first is America naval Captain Murrell (Robert Mitchum) who has already seen his share of misery and tragedy. Lt. Ware (David Hedison) is his able second-in-command. Captain Murrells' wife was lost at sea when a German U-Boat sank the ship she was on. Now returning to duty, Murrell hides what feelings of revenge he has and attends to the task at hand. The second is an experienced German naval Officer named Von Stolberg (Curt Jurgens) who learned his considerable skills as an undersea commander in the First World War. His best friend and second in command is Heinie Schwaffer (Theodore Bikel). Both have good crews. This film called "The Enemy Below" is an honest portrayal of men at war, depicting the conflict from both prospectives. Neither side is given a 'Hollywood edge' and thus allows both sides to exemplify exceptional skill and steadfast fortitude. When Murrell and his Destroyer, confronts Von Stolberg and his Submarine, both discover they are up against an exceptional commander. As such, they display considerable expertise in trying to destroy one another. The consequence? The first to make a mistake will sink the other. The audience realizes this is what war is all about. ****