20,000 Leagues Under the Sea

There is nothing to criticize about this Verne film in terms of special effects and we can only nod our heads in approval and write that the Oscar for visual effects was definitely deserved in 1954. The underwater shots are breathtaking, the Nautilus is perfectly detailed, the fight with the giant squid has no flaws, it is really exciting and not for a second does it look ridiculous. What the time of creation affected, however, is the plot. Or rather, the necessary evils it contains, especially the guitar-playing scene(s) and the antics of the trained sea lion (a typical Disney admixture). But I won't give it less than four stars. (20/05/2012)

A great adaptation of a Verne classic, which I wouldn't necessarily expect from Americans. They had great actors like Mason and Douglas leading the way, capturing attention, but Lorre also excels in his properly whimsical role. Thrilling, action-packed, yet still within limits suitable for a family film. Great sets and exterior work. (10/11/2014)