20,000 Leagues Under the Sea (1954)

There was a time, long ago, when Disney turned many a classic novel into exciting films, with all the trimmings and a great sense of awe and adventure. A shame they don't really do that anymore. I mean, sure, it's nice to get some new and fresh ideas in, but one of those roaring adventure stories based on a classic book, how cool would that be with modern technology?

Maybe scratch that, they'd probably go all CGI on our backsides and try to 'update' it anyway.

Which brings me to this glorious adaptation of Jules Verne's book '20,000 Leagues Under the Sea'.

It's 1868, and all across the South Sea (located in the Pacific, in case you're wondering) ships are being sunk by what is called a massive sea monster. The US government wants to find out what is true about these tales and sends out a warship to investigate. On board is renowned French professor Aronnax, his pupil Conseil and a harpooner called Ned Land. In their first encounter with the monster, these three are swept overboard and shortly after discover that the monster is in fact man-made and the very first operational submarine, piloted by the mysterious Captain Nemo and a nameless crew.

You see, they had some great source material to work with for starters, and it translates well to the big screen. Sure, there are things that have been Disney-fied, like the ship's pet seal Esmeralda and some funny moments between Conseil (Peter Lorre) and Ned (Kirk Douglas), but for the most part, the grim anti-war message and the tale of how hatred can consume a man is very present and is not covered with some nice metaphorical roses.

With a leading man like the always awesome Kirk Douglas, you'd assume he was the hero in this story, but his character is basically a dick.

Yes, that's what I said.

The only thing on his mind is pinching the treasure that the Nautilus uses for ballast and even though he could be forgiven for his desire to escape, the way he goes about it is rather obnoxious at times. It's a good thing, he and Peter Lorre create enough levity so it doesn't become grating.

One thing I have always admired since childhood, is the iconic look of the Nautilus herself. That is one beautiful submarine. Nowadays, you might consider it something along the lines of steampunk, even though it is clearly driven by nuclear power (although this is kept deliberately vague, in line with the time period).

But still, damn, that is one fine looking sub.

There is one thing that does rise to the top of my brain every time I rewatch this film. Even though Ned, Aronnax and Conseil are considered our protagonists, I never can help but be drawn to the character of Nemo. Yes, he is often stern and grim, but considering his backstory (which you do learn via a very natural dialogue, not through some hamfisted exposition) that is not really surprising. His reasoning is solid, actually. You'll discover why he sinks ships and why he chose to live in the ocean and you can't help but agree with him on quite a lot of the points he makes.

None of this would have left much of an impact if they didn't choose a brilliant actor for the part, and James Mason nails it. Or hits it out of the ballpark. Or some other metaphor (preferably concerning fish, seeing as this is ocean-themed). He is so bloody great in the role that all the other actors pale in comparison. It all makes the ending that much more poignant and it brings me to tears every time I see it.

No, I won't spoil it.

This film has only gained in greatness through the years and it is still wonderful to look at. And its message is strangely still as relevant today as it was when Jules Verne first penned it all those years ago.

Captain Nemo, I salute you.