123 reviews
"The Enemy Below" released in 1957, was one of those films directed by Dick Powell, and starring Robert Mitchum, that sparked with genuine realism and utmost attention to detail. This film also showed the harsh realities in war, and the dedication that men on both sides of the conflict can give to the task appointed. Mitchum plays the commander of a US Naval vessel that has the task of seeking out and destroying enemy submarines; having just recently lost one command, he is going to make sure such doesn't happen twice. The renowned German actor, Curt Jurgens, portrays the submarine commander whose presence has been detected by Mitchum's destroyer, and the chase is on.
Both commanders, Mitchum and Jurgens, in their characters, reveal that each was firm in their beliefs toward their respective countries. While Jurgens is not a gung-ho Nazi, he does have a firm dedication to his fatherland, and what it was before the war. Mitchum has the same firm devotion to his country, and what he is doing is the right course to bring a successful ending to the war, ultimately. There is a lot of verbal discussion during the course of the film, who is right, why are we engaged in this action, etc., but both commanders are desperately trying to out think and outmaneuver the other.
There were several good movies made during the 50s, this film, "The Enemy Below",and "Run Silent, Run Deep" come to mind, and are certainly worth a view. This film does give a look at both sides involved in the type of chase done here. An 8/10
Both commanders, Mitchum and Jurgens, in their characters, reveal that each was firm in their beliefs toward their respective countries. While Jurgens is not a gung-ho Nazi, he does have a firm dedication to his fatherland, and what it was before the war. Mitchum has the same firm devotion to his country, and what he is doing is the right course to bring a successful ending to the war, ultimately. There is a lot of verbal discussion during the course of the film, who is right, why are we engaged in this action, etc., but both commanders are desperately trying to out think and outmaneuver the other.
There were several good movies made during the 50s, this film, "The Enemy Below",and "Run Silent, Run Deep" come to mind, and are certainly worth a view. This film does give a look at both sides involved in the type of chase done here. An 8/10
What's really impressive about this movie is the photography. When you see Robert Mitchum actually standing on the deck of a destroyer with depth charges going off behind it, you know somebody went to a lot of trouble to get all this on film. That destroyer is no movie set. You'll find very few backdrops and special effects here except for underwater shots of the enemy U-boat, and even those are above average. It all seems ahead of its time somehow, the brilliant color footage, the musical score, and the attention to detail.
The Enemy Below is a fascinating study of WW2 anti-submarine warfare. Although the ending is a little corny, the anti-war message is timeless and quite appropriate. Especially now (Oct. 2004) as America is being dragged into another real conflict. It's certainly worth a look.
The Enemy Below is a fascinating study of WW2 anti-submarine warfare. Although the ending is a little corny, the anti-war message is timeless and quite appropriate. Especially now (Oct. 2004) as America is being dragged into another real conflict. It's certainly worth a look.
- lloyd7202003
- Oct 20, 2004
- Permalink
A US Destroyer plays a deadly game of cat and mouse with a German U-Boat in the South Atlantic during World War Two.
Despite this film getting fairly regular screenings on UK TV over the years, I saw it for the first time in its entirity over the weekend. Considering the era in which it was made, I was pleasantly surprised by its straightforward story and solid production. Rather than have some superfluous romantic sub-plot dragging it down, it instead concentrates on the professionalism of those involved on both sides. Robert Mitchum and Curt Jurgens portray the opposing Captains impressively as men who take no pleasure in the prospect of killing, but carry out their jobs to the best of their considerable abilities. The supporting cast include Theodore Bikel, David Hedison and a very young looking Doug McClure.
A combination of good technical credits, sure handed direction, good acting and a sympathetic depiction of the German crew ensure that the film holds up very well today. It may not be 'Das Boot' but its certainly entertaining.
Despite this film getting fairly regular screenings on UK TV over the years, I saw it for the first time in its entirity over the weekend. Considering the era in which it was made, I was pleasantly surprised by its straightforward story and solid production. Rather than have some superfluous romantic sub-plot dragging it down, it instead concentrates on the professionalism of those involved on both sides. Robert Mitchum and Curt Jurgens portray the opposing Captains impressively as men who take no pleasure in the prospect of killing, but carry out their jobs to the best of their considerable abilities. The supporting cast include Theodore Bikel, David Hedison and a very young looking Doug McClure.
A combination of good technical credits, sure handed direction, good acting and a sympathetic depiction of the German crew ensure that the film holds up very well today. It may not be 'Das Boot' but its certainly entertaining.
- campbell-russell-a
- Mar 23, 2013
- Permalink
Robert Mitchum is the new Captain of a destroyer on patrol in an area of the South Atlantic where there will be little chance for any action, or so the crew thinks. This is a new command for him, he lost his last vessel and was 21 days on life raft. Mitchum though he was in the merchant marine before World War II is as new to the navy as most of his crew.
Lurking beneath is Curt Jurgens in command of a U-Boat. Jurgens is a career navy man who's already given much for the fatherland, two sons lost. His submarine is on courier duty, not looking in fact for any combat.
But they find each other and The Enemy Below is about the cat and mouse game each of them play in trying to destroy the other.
With twelve years in between the end of World War II and the present it was now possible to portray Germans as three dimensional people, something rarely done during the war years. Jurgens at this time was a very big star on the European continent and was now getting roles that would introduce him to American audiences. He's very good as the professional, but tired U-Boat captain who just wants to get home.
He's matched all the way by Mitchum who's got a lot of doubts now having lost one ship already. The crew has some doubts too, but Mitchum proves worthy of the command he's been given.
The Enemy Below won the Academy Award that year for special effects. No ships in a tank, these are real vessels being used for this film.
Look for good performances by supporting players Theodore Bikel as the Executive Officer of the submarine, David Hedison as the Executive Officer of the destroyer and Russell Collins as the ship's doctor on the destroyer. You might note a small role for Doug McClure at the beginning of his career.
Lurking beneath is Curt Jurgens in command of a U-Boat. Jurgens is a career navy man who's already given much for the fatherland, two sons lost. His submarine is on courier duty, not looking in fact for any combat.
But they find each other and The Enemy Below is about the cat and mouse game each of them play in trying to destroy the other.
With twelve years in between the end of World War II and the present it was now possible to portray Germans as three dimensional people, something rarely done during the war years. Jurgens at this time was a very big star on the European continent and was now getting roles that would introduce him to American audiences. He's very good as the professional, but tired U-Boat captain who just wants to get home.
He's matched all the way by Mitchum who's got a lot of doubts now having lost one ship already. The crew has some doubts too, but Mitchum proves worthy of the command he's been given.
The Enemy Below won the Academy Award that year for special effects. No ships in a tank, these are real vessels being used for this film.
Look for good performances by supporting players Theodore Bikel as the Executive Officer of the submarine, David Hedison as the Executive Officer of the destroyer and Russell Collins as the ship's doctor on the destroyer. You might note a small role for Doug McClure at the beginning of his career.
- bkoganbing
- Feb 5, 2006
- Permalink
Have to agree with "bob the moo" on this one. I've seen it probably two dozen times, and will see it many more, I'm sure. One of my favorite "war" movies (w/Robert Mitchum and Curt Jurgens as destroyer and submarine captains, respectively). My other faves are "Platoon," "Full Metal Jacket," "Decision Before Dawn," (w/Oskar Werner and Richard Basehart--most excellent!), and of course, Kubrick's "Paths of Glory," w/Kirk Douglas, Adoph Menjou and George MacReady.
More than a blood-and-guts war movie (though it has plenty of terrific action scenes), it's more of a man-vs-man "cat and mouse" story. Absolutely excellent direction (by Dick Powell) and some terrific cinematography. Terrific scene between Jurgens and Theodore Bikel (who plays his Exec. Officer), that is nothing but facial gestures and eyebrows.
A very "moral" tale, it shows that even sworn enemies serving their countries in wartime can show respect and compassion toward each other, especially since they're all men-of-the-sea: sailors. Conversations between Mitchum and his ship's doctor and between Jurgens and his exec officer mirror each other. Note the scene of the American sailors pulling the German sailors aboard their lifeboats near the end; Mitchum helping rescue the U-boat captain and his exec after ramming them.
Great tale, well-scripted, acted, directed and shot. An model of how to make a terrific story into a movie.
More than a blood-and-guts war movie (though it has plenty of terrific action scenes), it's more of a man-vs-man "cat and mouse" story. Absolutely excellent direction (by Dick Powell) and some terrific cinematography. Terrific scene between Jurgens and Theodore Bikel (who plays his Exec. Officer), that is nothing but facial gestures and eyebrows.
A very "moral" tale, it shows that even sworn enemies serving their countries in wartime can show respect and compassion toward each other, especially since they're all men-of-the-sea: sailors. Conversations between Mitchum and his ship's doctor and between Jurgens and his exec officer mirror each other. Note the scene of the American sailors pulling the German sailors aboard their lifeboats near the end; Mitchum helping rescue the U-boat captain and his exec after ramming them.
Great tale, well-scripted, acted, directed and shot. An model of how to make a terrific story into a movie.
A test of cunning and courage between the commander of an American destroyer (Robert Mitchum) and the captain of a german U-boat (Curt Jurgens).
The movie was one of the first to portray the enemy of WWII sympathetic.Jurgens made his American film debut after being a star in European films.Director Dick Powell (who had crooned in Warner musicals in the early 30s,and became a considerable actor in the part of Philip Marlowe during the War) injects the film with exciting pace and a clinical observation of men at war.There are no unnecessary heroics in this movie.
The movie was one of the first to portray the enemy of WWII sympathetic.Jurgens made his American film debut after being a star in European films.Director Dick Powell (who had crooned in Warner musicals in the early 30s,and became a considerable actor in the part of Philip Marlowe during the War) injects the film with exciting pace and a clinical observation of men at war.There are no unnecessary heroics in this movie.
Inexorable duel of great stars into a submarine and a destroyer . During World War II, an American destroyer escort 'USS Haynes' (it was played by the real 'USS Whitehurst') captained by a tough skipper (Robert Mitchum) meets a German U-Boat commanded by an intelligent captain (Curt Jurgens) . Both captains are good ones, and the engagement lasts for a considerable time . Both of them pursuit one another and square off in the South Atlantic . This movie's closing epilogue states: "Twentieth Century-Fox wishes to thank the Department of Defense and the United States Navy for their assistance in the production of this motion picture."
Thrilling as well as exciting battle of wits between two skippers who gradually come to respect each other . Both of whom are a compellingly balanced match as two clever as well astute captains . This nail-biter is a tightly-knit drama centered on the relentless sea maneuvers of a destroyer going after a submarine and vice versa . The film is famous as one of the best WWII submarine movies, though some scenes at sea, however, suffer from the utilization of obvious models in a just as obvious studio tank . Interesting screenplay , being based on the novel by D.A. Rayner and the book and it's dust-jacket can be seen at the beginning of one of this movie's trailers . German player Curt Jurgens made his major mark on the international scene and it was American movie debut for German actor . The cast spent about a month filming on board this vessel. Many of the crew of the 'USS Whitehurst' appeared in this movie. Secondary cast is frankly good such as Theodor Bikel , Frank Albertson , Russell Collins , and this picture marks the feature film movie debuts for David Hedison -as Al Hedison- and Doug McClure . 20th Century-Fox production notes for this movie from the AMPAS Library declare that the 'USS Whitehurst' was a battle-hardened veteran from the Second World War which had during World War II been stationed at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Harold Rosson's colorful and vivid cinematography , including spectacular maritime scenes , though set in the South Atlantic Ocean of World War II, this movie's ocean scenes were filmed in the Pacific Ocean. . The motion picture was stunningly directed by former movie star Dick Powell who efficiently captures the claustrophobic up and undersea tension ,; this was one of the final theatrically released movies of director Dick Powell who soon after worked exclusively in television.
This suspenseful sea epic represents one of a select group of a few World War II submarine movies which have won the one single Academy Award in a technical category, that's just only the one Oscar in either special effects or sound editing. These movies include ¨Crash Dive¨ ; ¨Torpedo Run¨ and ¨U-571¨. The non-WW II sub-movie, ¨The Hunt for Red October¨ also won just the one Oscar as did the WW 2 part sub-movie 49th Parallel , but for Best Original Story . Furthermore , other important films about submarine are ¨Run Silent Run Deep¨, ¨Crimson tide¨ by Tony Scott with Denzel Washington and Gene Hackman; ¨K19¨ with Harrison Ford and Liam Neeson and the best ¨Das Boot¨ (1982) by Wolfgang Petersen with Jurgen Prochnow .
Thrilling as well as exciting battle of wits between two skippers who gradually come to respect each other . Both of whom are a compellingly balanced match as two clever as well astute captains . This nail-biter is a tightly-knit drama centered on the relentless sea maneuvers of a destroyer going after a submarine and vice versa . The film is famous as one of the best WWII submarine movies, though some scenes at sea, however, suffer from the utilization of obvious models in a just as obvious studio tank . Interesting screenplay , being based on the novel by D.A. Rayner and the book and it's dust-jacket can be seen at the beginning of one of this movie's trailers . German player Curt Jurgens made his major mark on the international scene and it was American movie debut for German actor . The cast spent about a month filming on board this vessel. Many of the crew of the 'USS Whitehurst' appeared in this movie. Secondary cast is frankly good such as Theodor Bikel , Frank Albertson , Russell Collins , and this picture marks the feature film movie debuts for David Hedison -as Al Hedison- and Doug McClure . 20th Century-Fox production notes for this movie from the AMPAS Library declare that the 'USS Whitehurst' was a battle-hardened veteran from the Second World War which had during World War II been stationed at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. Harold Rosson's colorful and vivid cinematography , including spectacular maritime scenes , though set in the South Atlantic Ocean of World War II, this movie's ocean scenes were filmed in the Pacific Ocean. . The motion picture was stunningly directed by former movie star Dick Powell who efficiently captures the claustrophobic up and undersea tension ,; this was one of the final theatrically released movies of director Dick Powell who soon after worked exclusively in television.
This suspenseful sea epic represents one of a select group of a few World War II submarine movies which have won the one single Academy Award in a technical category, that's just only the one Oscar in either special effects or sound editing. These movies include ¨Crash Dive¨ ; ¨Torpedo Run¨ and ¨U-571¨. The non-WW II sub-movie, ¨The Hunt for Red October¨ also won just the one Oscar as did the WW 2 part sub-movie 49th Parallel , but for Best Original Story . Furthermore , other important films about submarine are ¨Run Silent Run Deep¨, ¨Crimson tide¨ by Tony Scott with Denzel Washington and Gene Hackman; ¨K19¨ with Harrison Ford and Liam Neeson and the best ¨Das Boot¨ (1982) by Wolfgang Petersen with Jurgen Prochnow .
Since WWI, most people thought of the submarine as the hunter. Hitler called them his "wolves." But towards the middle of WWII, with the use of sonars, air reconnaissance and fast destroyers, the U-boat's mastery of sea warfare came to an end. For comments and statistics on the survival chances of German U-boat crews, watch Das Boot and The Eagle Has Landed.
I always thought Run Silent, Run Deep (1958), with Clark Gable and Burt Lancaster), was the older movie because it was in black and white while this was in color. Aside from the color, Enemy was also better technically crafted overall. But for me what puts Enemy well over Run Silent is the very effective characterization of the enemy U-boat Commander (portrayed by Curd Jurgens). In Run Silent, the captain and the crew of the Japanese destroyer hunting the American sub were practically faceless unknowns.
I notice that the U-boat commander has a "von" in his name indicating a noble lineage. Same as George Ritter von Trapp (of the famous singing family)a baron who commanded a U-boat in WWI. I understand the Kriegsmarine attracted a better class of educated and highly cultured people which is why the infamous Heydrich was cashiered from the German navy under the Weimar Republic. Incidentally, the US Navy was led to victory in the Pacific by another descendant of the Prussian junkers class, the petty nobility whose members usually made a career of the military. That would be Chester von Nimitz although his immediate ancestors gave up the "von" when they settled in the New World.
Dick Powell, singer and light comedy actor did a fantastic job writing the screenplay and directing this movie.
I always thought Run Silent, Run Deep (1958), with Clark Gable and Burt Lancaster), was the older movie because it was in black and white while this was in color. Aside from the color, Enemy was also better technically crafted overall. But for me what puts Enemy well over Run Silent is the very effective characterization of the enemy U-boat Commander (portrayed by Curd Jurgens). In Run Silent, the captain and the crew of the Japanese destroyer hunting the American sub were practically faceless unknowns.
I notice that the U-boat commander has a "von" in his name indicating a noble lineage. Same as George Ritter von Trapp (of the famous singing family)a baron who commanded a U-boat in WWI. I understand the Kriegsmarine attracted a better class of educated and highly cultured people which is why the infamous Heydrich was cashiered from the German navy under the Weimar Republic. Incidentally, the US Navy was led to victory in the Pacific by another descendant of the Prussian junkers class, the petty nobility whose members usually made a career of the military. That would be Chester von Nimitz although his immediate ancestors gave up the "von" when they settled in the New World.
Dick Powell, singer and light comedy actor did a fantastic job writing the screenplay and directing this movie.
"Das Boot," "Run Silent, Run Deep," "The Hunt for Red October," submarine movies are a favorite sub-genre of war movies, and, among these undersea films, "The Enemy Below" ranks with the best. Tautly directed by actor-director Dick Powell, the film depicts a strategic cat-and-mouse maneuver between the captain of a German U-boat and the captain of an American destroyer escort in the South Atlantic during World War II. The two captains engage in a war of strategy, which leads to growing mutual respect, although neither has ever laid eyes on the other. Torpedoes, depth charges, and zig-zag evasion are deployed in a deadly game of marine warfare, and the film's special effects won an Oscar, although they are unimpressive by contemporary standards. The fine screenplay by Wendell Mayes, adapted from a novel by D. A. Rayner, the crisp editing by Stuart Gilmore, and Curt Jurgens's sensitive performance as the German captain all merited Academy attention, but were overlooked.
The two captains engaged in a battle of wits to the death are seasoned veterans and carry baggage from their pasts. The American captain, well played by Robert Mitchum, helmed a freighter that was torpedoed and sank with his new bride aboard; he spent days adrift on a raft and only recently returned to active duty aboard the escort ship, which has largely avoided action until now. Curt Jurgens displays considerable depth as the war weary German captain, who disillusioned by the new German order. Both captains have sounding boards nearby to verbally express their inner thoughts. Mitchum talks with the ship's doctor, played by Russell Collins, while Jurgens bares his soul to his shipboard friend, Theodore Bikel.
The drama moves back and forth between the surface ship and the submarine below as each captain tracks the movements of his foe, attempts to anticipate his next move, and out maneuver him; they play a high risk game of chess with the loss of their ships and the lives of their crew if checkmated. "The Enemy Below" is engrossing throughout its relatively short running time; the tension builds both above and below the surface; suspense mounts, and viewers will be drawn into the drama until the end. For fans of submarine films and of Robert Mitchum, "The Enemy Below" is essential viewing, and all viewers will likely come away with a new appreciation of the talents of Curt Jurgens.
The two captains engaged in a battle of wits to the death are seasoned veterans and carry baggage from their pasts. The American captain, well played by Robert Mitchum, helmed a freighter that was torpedoed and sank with his new bride aboard; he spent days adrift on a raft and only recently returned to active duty aboard the escort ship, which has largely avoided action until now. Curt Jurgens displays considerable depth as the war weary German captain, who disillusioned by the new German order. Both captains have sounding boards nearby to verbally express their inner thoughts. Mitchum talks with the ship's doctor, played by Russell Collins, while Jurgens bares his soul to his shipboard friend, Theodore Bikel.
The drama moves back and forth between the surface ship and the submarine below as each captain tracks the movements of his foe, attempts to anticipate his next move, and out maneuver him; they play a high risk game of chess with the loss of their ships and the lives of their crew if checkmated. "The Enemy Below" is engrossing throughout its relatively short running time; the tension builds both above and below the surface; suspense mounts, and viewers will be drawn into the drama until the end. For fans of submarine films and of Robert Mitchum, "The Enemy Below" is essential viewing, and all viewers will likely come away with a new appreciation of the talents of Curt Jurgens.
- rmax304823
- May 24, 2002
- Permalink
USS HAYNES, real name, WHITEHURST DE-634, in the opening scene as the credits roll has weighed anchor and stood out from Trinidad that morning and is well out to sea. Which means she's operating in the Caribbean Sea Frontier Area.
A sailor heaves two buckets of garbage over the stern. If it was a "real" war situation let's just hope that there's nothing amongst the potato peelings, bottles, cans, etc, with USA stamped all over them. A U-boat captain on surface patrol would love nothing better than to scoop up garbage intelligence. A tip-off that allied ships maybe not far ahead? It's surprising what information can be gleaned from garbage.
There's curiosity among some crew members about the new captain, Murrell (Robert Mitchum). In the officer's wardroom someone stated that the XO, Lt Ware (David Hedison) should have been promoted to CO of HAYNES. Ware's only experience was sailing a yawl in the Miami yacht races in peacetime. Similar peacetime experience as Sub Lt Lockhart aboard COMPASS ROSE in "The Cruel Sea".
A possible U-boat contact appears on the radar screen. Murrel orders the bridge watch to get on the sub's tail and watch every course change he makes, and follow at the same speed. Camera shots now cutting between the pursuer and the pursued become interesting.
The U-boat captain, Von Stolberg (Curt Jergens), reminisces with Heinie Schaffer (Theodore Bikel), his second in command and old friend. "...but now it's, be a good warrior and never think, Heinie." They may be fighting for the New Germany; the Master Race. But there is a feeling of unease in Von Stolberg's heart and mind about the system. "Nothing good will come out of this war, win or lose. There's no honour in it. Memories will be ugly. We will die without God." Only Heinie is within earshot of the captain's opinions. He would probably not voice these opinions in front of Lt. Kunz, the officer aboard who struts and responds to orders, Nazi fashion. Von Stolberg shows silent contempt for the Master Race when on leaving the control room he drapes an oil-soaked towel over the Fuhrer's name which is stencilled on the overhead air conditioning trunk suspended over the chart table.
Captain Murrel again shows he's no slouch when he correctly calculates the time it will take for the submarine to dive, level to periscope depth, launch torpedoes, and running time to target. There are tense looking expressions on some of the crew's faces as Murrell presents HAYNES broadside on to the submarine at reduced speed. The tempting target suddenly turns hard to port; and shocked amazement is on the destroyer men's faces, all heads swivelling from left to right and eyes glued on the two torpedoes as they gurgle along the destroyer's starboard side and close aboard. Murrell proves his ability. He's as capable as the submerged opponent he's trying to destroy.
The U-boat goes deep after the depth charge attack and rests quietly on the sea bed. HAYNES heaves too right above her. Silence all round. A chess game is in progress in the sub's control room and Von Stolberg looks on with faintly amused contempt as Kunz buries his nose in a copy of Adolf Hitler's "Mein Kampf". Aboard HAYNES a studious naval rating, probably a bookworm, is reading Gibbon's "Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire". Heavier reading than "Mein Kampf", and about an empire that lasted a lot longer. The camera pans right to show a smiling commissioned officer reading a, "Little Orphan Annie" comic. It speaks volumes about the background mixture of men thrown together in times of conflict.
The U-boat gets his licks in at the Destroyer Escort with one torpedo out of a full spread. That one strike amidships at the ships's very vitals, its forward fire room, is all that is needed to finish her. With enough power remaining Murrell manages to close the distance with his surfaced opponent and strike the submarine forward of the conning tower.
Respectful courtesy is immediately apparent between the two captains as they sight each other for the first time. They salute, they have fought the good fight. In conflict courtesy between warriors like days of old comes to the fore. Men of both sides are mariners and, war or no war, the brotherhood of the sea rises to the surface. There are souls to be saved from this cruel sea, and hostilities take second place as deadly opponents become survivors and are hauled aboard the whaleboat.
Von Stolberg reading the burial lesson in German over the remains of Heinie Schaffer before committing him to the deep seems very appropriate. German dialogue throughout the film with English subtitles would have been distracting; spoiling the concentration.
The German side was given fair treatment. Something that has often been lacking over many years. The image of strutting bone-headed Nazi automatons often bordered on the ridiculous. Thankfully there was Only Kunz aboard the submarine who seemed to symbolise the Master Race.
Robert Mitchum turned in one of his best performances, as did Curt Jurgens, who incidentally, was interned in Germany in World War Two for not "embracing" the Nazi system. Dick Powell, a crooner in the thirties, an accomplished actor in the forties, proved himself as an accomplished director with this production.
On ramming U-boats? RN destroyer HESPERUS sliced U-357 in 1942. VISCOUNT, closing at 26 knots, finished off U-661, 1942. Lend Lease BUCKLEY class DE, HMS AYLMER dispatched U-1051. Other DE's CALDER, BENTNICK, and MANNERS, were in on the kill, January 1945. All ships survived. Ramming was officially discouraged in the Royal Navy because of damage incurred. Captains balled out in a gentle manner by higher authority. "Don't dare do it again!....Until next time. There's a good chap. And good hunting! And if that wasn't open-ended encouragement to do it again I don't know what was!
A sailor heaves two buckets of garbage over the stern. If it was a "real" war situation let's just hope that there's nothing amongst the potato peelings, bottles, cans, etc, with USA stamped all over them. A U-boat captain on surface patrol would love nothing better than to scoop up garbage intelligence. A tip-off that allied ships maybe not far ahead? It's surprising what information can be gleaned from garbage.
There's curiosity among some crew members about the new captain, Murrell (Robert Mitchum). In the officer's wardroom someone stated that the XO, Lt Ware (David Hedison) should have been promoted to CO of HAYNES. Ware's only experience was sailing a yawl in the Miami yacht races in peacetime. Similar peacetime experience as Sub Lt Lockhart aboard COMPASS ROSE in "The Cruel Sea".
A possible U-boat contact appears on the radar screen. Murrel orders the bridge watch to get on the sub's tail and watch every course change he makes, and follow at the same speed. Camera shots now cutting between the pursuer and the pursued become interesting.
The U-boat captain, Von Stolberg (Curt Jergens), reminisces with Heinie Schaffer (Theodore Bikel), his second in command and old friend. "...but now it's, be a good warrior and never think, Heinie." They may be fighting for the New Germany; the Master Race. But there is a feeling of unease in Von Stolberg's heart and mind about the system. "Nothing good will come out of this war, win or lose. There's no honour in it. Memories will be ugly. We will die without God." Only Heinie is within earshot of the captain's opinions. He would probably not voice these opinions in front of Lt. Kunz, the officer aboard who struts and responds to orders, Nazi fashion. Von Stolberg shows silent contempt for the Master Race when on leaving the control room he drapes an oil-soaked towel over the Fuhrer's name which is stencilled on the overhead air conditioning trunk suspended over the chart table.
Captain Murrel again shows he's no slouch when he correctly calculates the time it will take for the submarine to dive, level to periscope depth, launch torpedoes, and running time to target. There are tense looking expressions on some of the crew's faces as Murrell presents HAYNES broadside on to the submarine at reduced speed. The tempting target suddenly turns hard to port; and shocked amazement is on the destroyer men's faces, all heads swivelling from left to right and eyes glued on the two torpedoes as they gurgle along the destroyer's starboard side and close aboard. Murrell proves his ability. He's as capable as the submerged opponent he's trying to destroy.
The U-boat goes deep after the depth charge attack and rests quietly on the sea bed. HAYNES heaves too right above her. Silence all round. A chess game is in progress in the sub's control room and Von Stolberg looks on with faintly amused contempt as Kunz buries his nose in a copy of Adolf Hitler's "Mein Kampf". Aboard HAYNES a studious naval rating, probably a bookworm, is reading Gibbon's "Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire". Heavier reading than "Mein Kampf", and about an empire that lasted a lot longer. The camera pans right to show a smiling commissioned officer reading a, "Little Orphan Annie" comic. It speaks volumes about the background mixture of men thrown together in times of conflict.
The U-boat gets his licks in at the Destroyer Escort with one torpedo out of a full spread. That one strike amidships at the ships's very vitals, its forward fire room, is all that is needed to finish her. With enough power remaining Murrell manages to close the distance with his surfaced opponent and strike the submarine forward of the conning tower.
Respectful courtesy is immediately apparent between the two captains as they sight each other for the first time. They salute, they have fought the good fight. In conflict courtesy between warriors like days of old comes to the fore. Men of both sides are mariners and, war or no war, the brotherhood of the sea rises to the surface. There are souls to be saved from this cruel sea, and hostilities take second place as deadly opponents become survivors and are hauled aboard the whaleboat.
Von Stolberg reading the burial lesson in German over the remains of Heinie Schaffer before committing him to the deep seems very appropriate. German dialogue throughout the film with English subtitles would have been distracting; spoiling the concentration.
The German side was given fair treatment. Something that has often been lacking over many years. The image of strutting bone-headed Nazi automatons often bordered on the ridiculous. Thankfully there was Only Kunz aboard the submarine who seemed to symbolise the Master Race.
Robert Mitchum turned in one of his best performances, as did Curt Jurgens, who incidentally, was interned in Germany in World War Two for not "embracing" the Nazi system. Dick Powell, a crooner in the thirties, an accomplished actor in the forties, proved himself as an accomplished director with this production.
On ramming U-boats? RN destroyer HESPERUS sliced U-357 in 1942. VISCOUNT, closing at 26 knots, finished off U-661, 1942. Lend Lease BUCKLEY class DE, HMS AYLMER dispatched U-1051. Other DE's CALDER, BENTNICK, and MANNERS, were in on the kill, January 1945. All ships survived. Ramming was officially discouraged in the Royal Navy because of damage incurred. Captains balled out in a gentle manner by higher authority. "Don't dare do it again!....Until next time. There's a good chap. And good hunting! And if that wasn't open-ended encouragement to do it again I don't know what was!
"Das Boot" it ain't but Dick Powell's enjoyable film about a German U-Boat and an American Destroyer on and off each other's tail has its own excitement giving equal credence and screen time to both sides and refusing to demonise the enemy; indeed, the mutual respect shown by both the Germans and the Americans to each other makes the film moving as well as exciting and something of an anti-war movie at a time when they were hardly fashionable.
Must of the usual clichés are there but it's well cast, (Curt Jurgens' German Captain is particularly excellent), and director Powell handles the action sequences and the climax with some brio making it one of the better movies about the war at sea. Hal Rosson's widescreen cinematography is first class.
Must of the usual clichés are there but it's well cast, (Curt Jurgens' German Captain is particularly excellent), and director Powell handles the action sequences and the climax with some brio making it one of the better movies about the war at sea. Hal Rosson's widescreen cinematography is first class.
- MOscarbradley
- Mar 19, 2007
- Permalink
- MikeyB1793
- Jan 24, 2016
- Permalink
Don't get me wrong,this one of the best Navy/Destroyer movies made but there are some problems I would like to point out. 1. "we will trail him until dawn and attack". the idea that a DE commander with a radar advantage would waste it by waiting until day light when it would be almost impossible to surprise a surfaced sub.He would go right after the sub and if could get close enough switch on his searchlight or fire a star shell,then open fire with every thing that could brought to bare. 2.In the opening credits that shows the full ship clearly shows the ship is equipped with Headgehogs as were all the Buckly's, there is no mention of these in the movie. 3.The Radar/Sonar operator,s giving course changes of the sub. These folks can only give a range and bearing to the target. It would be up to guy on the DRT (Dead Reconing Tracer), that was the guy making doodles on a board. Anyway I still think it was a good movie.
The Enemy Below is a World War II drama set completely at sea, it details the battle of wits between Captain Murrell aboard his U.S. Destroyer, and Capt Von Stolberg down in his German Submarine.
The Enemy Below is a fine picture, it has been harshly treated by some critics over the years because it falls into a number of sub-genre war films that proudly proclaim that we should respect the enemy. The 50s was a decade that saw many a war film surface {pardon the submarine pun} that rid itself of Gung-Ho fervour, and put a more humane slant on the opposition forces in movies. With that in mind one can reasonably understand any frustrations viewers have with this one, if? They have seen far too many films of its ilk? But to me, outside of the standard bearers like The Bridge On The River Kwai, this picture looks fabulous and engrosses from first reel to last.
Robert Mitchum {Murrell} and Curd Jürgens {Von Stolbeg}, in truth, have done better work in their respective sleep, but I personally get a real kick out of the performances of the two men here. Respect and admiration for each Captain is perfectly portrayed. In amongst the explosions and the tick-tock nature of the piece, we have two fine soldiers who are weary and wise to the folly of war, with both Mitchum and Jürgens holding this particular viewer in the palms of their hands. Winning the Academy Award for best special effects {no stage stuff here, it's all out off the coast of Oahu}, featuring the beast like Whitehurst ship, and of course two actors who knew that restraint is sometimes a valuable commodity, it's a real well put together production in my eyes. There is a school of thought that says all war films are anti war films, and that may well be the case, but some shine brighter than others, and this be one such picture. 8/10
The Enemy Below is a fine picture, it has been harshly treated by some critics over the years because it falls into a number of sub-genre war films that proudly proclaim that we should respect the enemy. The 50s was a decade that saw many a war film surface {pardon the submarine pun} that rid itself of Gung-Ho fervour, and put a more humane slant on the opposition forces in movies. With that in mind one can reasonably understand any frustrations viewers have with this one, if? They have seen far too many films of its ilk? But to me, outside of the standard bearers like The Bridge On The River Kwai, this picture looks fabulous and engrosses from first reel to last.
Robert Mitchum {Murrell} and Curd Jürgens {Von Stolbeg}, in truth, have done better work in their respective sleep, but I personally get a real kick out of the performances of the two men here. Respect and admiration for each Captain is perfectly portrayed. In amongst the explosions and the tick-tock nature of the piece, we have two fine soldiers who are weary and wise to the folly of war, with both Mitchum and Jürgens holding this particular viewer in the palms of their hands. Winning the Academy Award for best special effects {no stage stuff here, it's all out off the coast of Oahu}, featuring the beast like Whitehurst ship, and of course two actors who knew that restraint is sometimes a valuable commodity, it's a real well put together production in my eyes. There is a school of thought that says all war films are anti war films, and that may well be the case, but some shine brighter than others, and this be one such picture. 8/10
- hitchcockthelegend
- Feb 19, 2009
- Permalink
Although a number of years after this picture was released, I served for 2-1/2 years as an officer on a U. S. Navy ship, so I gained an extra enjoyment and appreciation for this movie. This was especially true with regard to the realistic shipboard filming. On many other "Navy" flicks," even where well-done, you can't help but imagine the actors walking away from their "ships" at the end of the day's scenes - and proceeding about a hundred paces out the door and into the Hollywood parking lot. Not so here.
In all the history of "talking pictures," from 80 or so years ago, there probably haven't been any two famous, leading actors more reserved, low-key, and phlegmatic than Mitchum and Jergens. They might even be 1-2 (in either order) on such a list.
However, and especially together, as the American and German adversaries, this style works perfectly - and an already-excellent production is all the better for it. Again, in other naval films, the captain spends much of the time shouting frantic directives, and you still know he's doing this only a few hundred feet from his car in the lot outside the sound stage. Bob and Curt bring a calm, deliberate, realistic and intelligent perspective to their characters.
In addition, the American and German captains were not the extremely-opposite caricatures so often portrayed in war films.
This picture has shown frequently recently, and I've enjoyed it every time I was able to catch it.
In all the history of "talking pictures," from 80 or so years ago, there probably haven't been any two famous, leading actors more reserved, low-key, and phlegmatic than Mitchum and Jergens. They might even be 1-2 (in either order) on such a list.
However, and especially together, as the American and German adversaries, this style works perfectly - and an already-excellent production is all the better for it. Again, in other naval films, the captain spends much of the time shouting frantic directives, and you still know he's doing this only a few hundred feet from his car in the lot outside the sound stage. Bob and Curt bring a calm, deliberate, realistic and intelligent perspective to their characters.
In addition, the American and German captains were not the extremely-opposite caricatures so often portrayed in war films.
This picture has shown frequently recently, and I've enjoyed it every time I was able to catch it.
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. ****
- thinker1691
- Sep 24, 2007
- Permalink
Capt. Murrell (Robert Mitchum) is new to the American destroyer escort USS Haynes. The crew is spreading rumors that the man is weak and sea sick. He soon shows his experience when the ship encounters a German U-Boat captained by Von Stolberg (Curd Jürgens). It's a prolong battle of wits in the Altantic.
The movie is a bit too static in between the explosive action. The tension and the editing style is still old fashion. The scenes run a bit too long. The U-boat is a bit too roomy. It doesn't have quite the claustrophobic feel that other great U-boat movies like Das Boot. The most intriguing aspect is the human portrayal of the German captain. He's not the usual cartoon villain for that era. The use of a real destroyer and explosives are compelling. This is a great strategic-battle movie that inspires many others.
The movie is a bit too static in between the explosive action. The tension and the editing style is still old fashion. The scenes run a bit too long. The U-boat is a bit too roomy. It doesn't have quite the claustrophobic feel that other great U-boat movies like Das Boot. The most intriguing aspect is the human portrayal of the German captain. He's not the usual cartoon villain for that era. The use of a real destroyer and explosives are compelling. This is a great strategic-battle movie that inspires many others.
- SnoopyStyle
- Apr 6, 2015
- Permalink
- JamesHitchcock
- Nov 13, 2018
- Permalink
- classicsoncall
- Jan 18, 2007
- Permalink
I am a great fan of the WW2 movies that were turned out in the 1950's and early 60's. This is one of those classics.
Effectively, it is about a Captain of a US ship vs a German Captain of a submarine, that plays out as a battle of the minds. I loved the story. the acting is excellent. The story convincing. It is great entertainment.. However, the spacious surrounds of the German U-Boat are nowhere near accurate. Very crowded, confined and dirty in reality.
I love this cat and mouse movie. For any war movie buff of that movie making genera, this is not just a must see, but one of the best.
Effectively, it is about a Captain of a US ship vs a German Captain of a submarine, that plays out as a battle of the minds. I loved the story. the acting is excellent. The story convincing. It is great entertainment.. However, the spacious surrounds of the German U-Boat are nowhere near accurate. Very crowded, confined and dirty in reality.
I love this cat and mouse movie. For any war movie buff of that movie making genera, this is not just a must see, but one of the best.
- OzMovieWatcher
- Sep 8, 2020
- Permalink
Dick Powell, the likable crooner from the Busby Berkeley musicals of the 1930s surprised a lot of people when he toughened up his image in a series of excellent film noirs in the mid-40s and early 50s, including MURDER, MY SWEET (1944) and CORNERED (1945). In the 50s, he changed track once again by stepping behind the camera to helm five unassuming genre films: a good noir-ish thriller, SPLIT SECOND (1953), the infamous John Wayne turkey, THE CONQUEROR (1956), an innocuous remake of the Frank Capra classic, IT HAPPENED ONE NIGHT (1934) entitled YOU CAN'T RUN AWAY FROM IT (1956) and two Robert Mitchum war movies, THE HUNTERS (1958) and, best of all, THE ENEMY BELOW.
While I'm usually wary of war films set inside a submarine (mostly because the incessant surfeit of technical jargon gets on my nerves pretty quickly), I can't deny that I've sat through some pretty good ones through the years, like CRASH DIVE (1943), DESTINATION TOKYO (1943), WE DIVE AT DAWN (1943), HELL AND HIGH WATER (1954), RUN SILENT, RUN DEEP (1958), TORPEDO RUN (1958), ON THE BEACH (1959), ICE STATION ZEBRA (1968), DAS BOOT (1981) and THE HUNT FOR RED October (1990). Now I can safely add another one to that not unimpressive list: THE ENEMY BELOW.
Robert Mitchum and Curd Jurgens are suitably sturdy as the two sea captains on opposite sides of this exciting cat-and-mouse WWII chase story. The climax of the film (featuring the bulk of the special effects which won an Academy Award) is an intensely suspenseful and nail-biting one, capably sustained by the director and the cast (including David Hedison and Theodore Bikel as each ship's respective second-in-command).
While I'm usually wary of war films set inside a submarine (mostly because the incessant surfeit of technical jargon gets on my nerves pretty quickly), I can't deny that I've sat through some pretty good ones through the years, like CRASH DIVE (1943), DESTINATION TOKYO (1943), WE DIVE AT DAWN (1943), HELL AND HIGH WATER (1954), RUN SILENT, RUN DEEP (1958), TORPEDO RUN (1958), ON THE BEACH (1959), ICE STATION ZEBRA (1968), DAS BOOT (1981) and THE HUNT FOR RED October (1990). Now I can safely add another one to that not unimpressive list: THE ENEMY BELOW.
Robert Mitchum and Curd Jurgens are suitably sturdy as the two sea captains on opposite sides of this exciting cat-and-mouse WWII chase story. The climax of the film (featuring the bulk of the special effects which won an Academy Award) is an intensely suspenseful and nail-biting one, capably sustained by the director and the cast (including David Hedison and Theodore Bikel as each ship's respective second-in-command).
- Bunuel1976
- Feb 22, 2006
- Permalink
- andrew-119-97990
- Jan 27, 2014
- Permalink