This sentimental, seafaring traditions / whaling saga is well cared for by director, Henry Hathaway, and an outstanding cast. Nothing against CASABLANCA or BEN HUR, but they get run to death and it seems to me that TCM or AMC could find some time to show this little gem the light of day now and again. Lionel Barrymore stomps the quarterdeck on crutches, despite acute arthritis which often relegated him to a wheelchair. Under-appreciated, Richard Widmark, is about 180 degrees out from his breakout role as psychopathic hoodlum, Tommy Udo, in 1947's Kiss Of Death. How many outstanding films was Widmark a part of? Way too many to list here. Dean Stockwell (Quantum Leap's holographic Admiral "Al"Calavicci) is excellent as Jed and solid support comes from character pros the likes of John McIntyre, Harry Morgan, Cecil Kellaway and Gene Lockhart, among others. This film is definitely worthwhile viewing.
A favorite scene: Teacher, Gene Lockhart, is unable to break Captain Joy's heart when young Jed takes his exam.
A favorite scene: Teacher, Gene Lockhart, is unable to break Captain Joy's heart when young Jed takes his exam.