Technical Specifics Allows 20,000 Leagues to Shine

Laura Flippin's latest blog post:

Despite the fact that creating the sheer impressive visage that is 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea put Disney approximately five million dollars behind on profits, a review from Variety argues that it was well worth it, as the finished product creates something magnificent that cannot be replicated.

The story, based on the Jules Verne classic, begins in San Francisco, as several maritime men hear reports of a monstrous denizen sinking ships off the coast.  Naturally, several men decide to board a ship and go after the beast, after which only a few members survive.

The cast comprises of four main actors.  Captain Nemo, a genius who has created an astoundingly beautiful vessel, serves as the commanding officer of the infamous Nautilus; James Mason portrays the role for the film adaptation.  Kirk Douglas plays Ned Land, a rogue-type harpoon artist.  Paul Lukas plays Professor Pierre Aronnax, a man of science who has a kind and gentle disposition.  Finally, rounding out the fundamental cast is Peter Lorre, who plays Conseil—the professor’s apprentice.

While the acting is undeniably satisfactory, it is the visual representation that carries the movie, according to the review.  The technical skill involved in creating the Nautilus and the undersea environment is nothing but an impressive feat, considering the film’s 1954 completion date.  Much detail is paid towards the construction of the interior of the vessel, where the bulk of the film takes place.  The use of underwater lensing is remarkable on a number of accounts; as is the design and creation of several pieces of equipment that closely resemble products from Verne’s own illustrations.

In the 1954 awards ceremony for the Academy Awards, the film won for Best Color Art Direction and Special Effects. 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea was also nominated for the Best Editing category.

from Laura Flippin Movie Reviews http://ift.tt/1lUhoxP