Crest of the Wave

Set in the aftermath of World War II, Crest of the Wave is a riveting drama starring some of the most renowned actors of the era, including Gene Kelly, John Justin, and Bernard Lee. The movie, released in 1954, is a fascinating portrayal of post-war international relations, technology, espionage, and intrepid human spirit.

Gene Kelly, famously known for his stellar performances in musicals, exhibits impressive versatility in heavily dramatic Crest of the Wave. The film showcases Kelly in a totally different light, diverging from his song-and-dance stereotype. He sports the character of an American scientist, Brad Lorimer brought to a naval base in Britain. His purpose? To fix the technical glitches in an experimental torpedo named "Houghton Project", a top-secret military endeavor.

But, as things often are in a top-secret military affair, the assignment isn’t as simple as it seems on the surface. It's a multilayered plot intertwined with elements of suspense, manipulation, forgotten alliances, and clever Briticism, stirring the drama. Kelly's character finds himself navigating treacherous waters, from inter-departmental friction, subterfuge, to facing international rivalries that may have repercussions on a global scale.

When Brad forms a bond with Sir Charles Holland, a British veteran played by Bernard Lee, the plot takes some intriguing turns. Intricacies of international diplomacy, the looming shadow of the cold war, informers, and double agents arise, making the audience sit at the edge of their seats. They both become embroiled in a series of events, illustrating the tense atmosphere that prevailed in naval bases during the research and development of top-secret weapons. The story leaps from one riveting context to another, each presenting Kelly with challenges.

John Justin, while playing the part of Lieutenant Rogerts, shows his calibre as the base commander who finds himself in conflict with Brad Lorimer. There is a quick-witted, sharp rivalry between Justin and Kelly's characters, providing an intense subplot to the broader narrative. The difficult dynamics between Brad and Rogerts further accentuates the gravity of the mission, making Crest of the Wave all the more engaging.

An interesting deviation for Hollywood actor Gene Kelly, the movie was filmed largely in Britain, and directed by English filmmaking legend, Roy Boulting. This Anglo-American collaboration added a unique flavor to the film. Crest of the Wave is also marked by its authentic portrayal of submarine warfare and the moral ambiguities of groundbreaking military technology.

The films' screenplay, penned by seasoned writer Eric Ambler, brilliantly captures the high-stakes tension brewing within the secretive naval base. It excellently marries the unfolding drama with technical jargon, giving the audience an authentic experience of a post-war naval base. The dialogue is crisp, witty, and impactful, with each interaction adding a new dimension to the storyline.

Amidst an edge-of-the-seat thriller, Eric Ambler does not fail to provide the occasional comic relief, presenting an exceptional blend of suspense, drama, and humor. The scenes between Kelly and French actress, Bella Darvi (as Jeanne) add a refreshing romantic angle to the film, making it appealing for a wider audience. It provides a stark contrast against the backdrop of military operations, enhancing the film's dramatic impact.

The score, composed by Malcolm Arnold, lends a fitting ambiance to the film. It complements the intensity of the plot, and the quiet anxiety of the characters, creating a rich atmosphere that immerses the audience completely into the world of Crest of the Wave.

Technically sound, the film's masterful blend of tight editing, excellent cinematography, and the stellar performances of a talented cast make it a compelling watch. The film speaks volumes about the political tensions of the era, unraveling a surprisingly human story amid global tensions and political intrigue.

Crest of the Wave is an enthralling blend of suspense, action, drama, and human relations, capturing the mood of a critical time in world history. The film's exploration of international relations, post-war paranoia, and the burgeoning Cold War era makes it a compelling viewing experience for any cinema enthusiast or history buff.