SEAFARERS, THE (director: Stanley Kubrick; screenwriter: Will Chasen; cinematographer: Stanley Kubrick; editor: Stanley Kubrick; cast: Don Hollenbeck (Narrator); Runtime: 28; MPAA Rating: NR; producer: Lester Cooper; Indian Relay Productions; 1953)
“For those who must have in their collection every film Kubrick made.”

Reviewed by Dennis Schwartz

Stanley Kubrick’s (“Lolita”/”Spartacus”/”The Killing”) first feature made in color was this industrial film shot when he was 25 in 1953 and was just beginning his film career. It’s a competently made straightforward documentary commissioned by the Seafarers International Union to present them in a positive light. It showcases to its members and potential members the benefits of joining the union–that it offers them a chance to gain dignity, security, an organization to protect their rights and get them a higher standard of living. Its filmed primarily at the SIU’s Atlantic & Gulf Coast District building that serves as a hiring hall, place to relax with colleagues, buy seafaring clothes and attend classes.

Don Hollenbeck provides the informative narration.

Fours year after this film, Kubrick made the masterpiece anti-war film Paths of Glory. The Seafarers is an oddity because you couldn’t have guessed it was made by Kubrick. The film is for those who must have in their collection every film Kubrick made.

REVIEWED ON 7/4/2009 GRADE: B-

Dennis Schwartz: “Ozus’ World Movie Reviews”

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