‘The Cruel Sea’: A 1953 War Film That Still Commands Respect

Many who served in World War II starred in films that mirrored their experiences.

Sub-Lt. Lockhart (Donald Sinden, L) and Lt. Cmdr. Ericson (Jack Hawkins), in “The Cruel Sea.” GDF

NR | 2h 6m | Epic, Drama, War | 1953

In the early 1950s, Britain was still catching its breath from World War II, and audiences weren’t quite ready to turn away from it. When “The Cruel Sea” premiered in 1953, it struck a chord with moviegoers who had lived through the chaos it depicted.