This is a film worth watching. The story has suspense even though at times it's a bit all over the place, which makes the relatively short runtime seem longer than it actually is. Some of it is harder to believe, such as the angry mob towards the end of the film.
It has interesting cinematography, obviously influenced by expressionism. The underwater shots are haunting and very beautiful. The shots of animals have an alienating effect that fits the atmosphere.
The acting isn't even that great, although Mitchum is charming in an evil way and does carry the film. The rest of the cast does allright although you do get the feeling sometimes that they didn't really know how to get a handle on what was asked of them.
Religion is a very strong theme and it is played out explicitely, which you could do in 1950's America. The theme of repressed sexuality is perhaps even more present but it is implicit, and only comes to light in a few key scenes. But key scenes they are.
It has interesting cinematography, obviously influenced by expressionism. The underwater shots are haunting and very beautiful. The shots of animals have an alienating effect that fits the atmosphere.
The acting isn't even that great, although Mitchum is charming in an evil way and does carry the film. The rest of the cast does allright although you do get the feeling sometimes that they didn't really know how to get a handle on what was asked of them.
Religion is a very strong theme and it is played out explicitely, which you could do in 1950's America. The theme of repressed sexuality is perhaps even more present but it is implicit, and only comes to light in a few key scenes. But key scenes they are.