Survivors fight for their lives on board a lifeboat

Rating: 8/10 (24 August 2014)

The strength of Lifeboat is the very interesting mix of characters who survive the torpedo sinking of their American-British ship by a German u-boat. The movie is described as a propaganda film, shot in 1944 during World War II, and the character of the German boat captain (played by Walter Slezak) gives it that focus; however, it was a pleasure viewing a movie that serves up such a diverse group performed so well by a great cast, Wm. Bendix, John Hodiak, Tallulah Bankhead, Hume Cronyn, Canada Lee, Mary Anderson, Henry Hull, Heather Angel and Walter Slezak as the German. They all share a lifeboat and the German captain remains something of a mystery for much of the movie. With his marine experience, they hope he can help them. I found that Wm. Bendix gave a fine performance and his role proves to be pivotal. Tallulah Bankhead was outstanding as the journalist who shows her detachment from a crisis that has others trembling. In her high heels and well-coiffed hair, her character is not really credible but the air of being above the tragic event reinforces her steely character. She is also a realist and knows the German can help and persuades the others not to abandon him. She also shows a large measure of compassion when misfortune strikes. And she is not above showing passion for John Hodiak, a man who she actually loathes, except for her physical attraction to him. Hodiak's character is high strung, commanding and hateful towards the German. He does not hesitate to try to take control when the chance arises. The fact that he appears shirtless reinforces the macho image. It is an image that attracts and repels the female lead, played by Tallulah Bankhead. Canada Lee is the strong, silent character who adds spiritual solace at critical moments. His fine voice and stature are well suited to the character. Hume Cronyn and Mary Anderson are appealing characters, best described as team players; they also become a couple on the lifeboat. A great effort by director Alfred Hitchcock, it was a departure from his usual thrillers but showed his ability to handle another movie genre. I noticed John Steinbeck's name on the opening frame. One of the great American novelists, the strength of the characterization was likely due to his contribution; however, Steinbeck's disappointment with the movie led to a request to remove his name from the credits. I am glad to see that his name did appear anyway. To my mind, this has the feel of one of his works.