Retro Reviews: 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea

John Perrucci- There is no doubt that 20, 000 Leagues Under the Sea is by far the "mightiest motion picture of them all" as the film's tagline suggests. Starring Kirk Douglas (you may also be familiar with his son: Michael Douglas - both actors are still alive today) as Ned Land, and James Mason as the nefarious Captain Nemo.

Also starring in this film is Paul Lukas as Professor Pierre Aronnax, Peter Lorre as Conseil, and a seal, 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea was the first science fiction film produced by Walt Disney Productions, as well as the only science fiction film personally produced by Walt Disney. An ambitious production at the time, It nabbed two Academy Awards, for special effects and art direction. The film has become the best-known adaptation of Jules Verne's novel. This film is also Disney's fifth live-action film overall.

"In the year 1868, when rumors of a dangerous sea monster attacking ships in the Pacific Ocean have created much fear among captains and sailor, causing many ships to be shut donw. The United States government calls in Professor Pierre M. Aronnax, and Conseil, his assitant onto an expedition to prove or disprove the monster's existence. One of the members of their crew is the cocky master harpooneer Ned Land.
After months of searching, the "monster" is spotted. As it turns out, the "monster" is a man-made "submerging boat" that appears deserted. Inside, Aronnax finds a viewing window and sees an underwater funeral. Ned, Aronnax, and Conseil then attempt to leave in their lifeboat, but the submarine crew returns to their ship, capturing the castaways."

In this film acting was great. Paul Lukas and Peter Lorre I feel deliver the most from the cast, and the music was wonderful, including the dance number that appears at one point in the movie, featuring Kirk Douglas, who also sings in the movie.

Overall, I thought the film was great, (4 out of 5 stars), and, from what I remember - in regards to the music, the singing was really good. One part of the movie that I liked best was when the "sea monster" appeared on screen. If you are interested in seeing this Disney classic, it is currently available for streaming on Netflix.

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