Waterfront Symbolism

Elia Kazan’s film, On the Waterfront, demonstrates the complicated life of washed up ex-boxer, Terry Malloy, and his fight against the organized crime conglomerate that controls the shipping docks of Hoboken, New Jersey. The specific elements within the film, such as supporting characters, surrounding environment, and outfit selection are carefully utilized in order to constantly support Terry’s self-perception as the plot develops. The 1954 film On The Waterfront, demonstrates the reoccurring theme of importance of individual integrity in a corrupt society through character development, narrative structure, and costume employed through mise-en-scéne.

The character of Terry Malloy, portrayed by Marlon Brando, proves to present himself as a very complicated individual within the film. While being surrounded by a variety of strong influences, Terry is forced to make complicated choices that permanently alter his psyche as well as mental outlook on his life situations. One of his most strong influences would be the prominent supporting characters within the film: Edie Doyle, Father Barry, and his brother Charlie.

The bundle of contradictory emotions housed by Malloy are brought to light and acted upon with the aid of Joey Doyle’s sister, Edie. After meeting Edie at the docks and learning of her relation to Joey, he is immediately clouded with a strong feeling of guilt, which continues to grow as he spends more and more time with her. Edie’s modest and angelic personality have a strong affect on Malloy’s rough and rugged heart, allowing him to reclaim his conscience and make the correct moral choices. Malloy’s knowledge of Joey’s demise continues to haunt him until he is persuaded to come clean to Edie, after realizing he is developi...

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...ther’s death avenged.

In addition, Father Barry’s costume was also indicative of the character and ideas that he represented in the film. Standing tall and stoic among the workers, the height of the priest ensured viewers with a sense of nobility and pride. His height among the workers was also an indicator of his importance in their lives, as someone for them to seek for answers or aid.

The film On the Waterfront was a masterpiece in itself with many underlying themes that spoke out to viewers and allowed them to view society in a new light. Through the development of the characters, the plot and narrative structure, and costume and makeup design, the main themes within the film are brought to life. Terry Malloy, a mentally complex character, is able to overcome the constriction of an infectious, corrupted society, and attain his own individual integrity.