It's too bad this little film got pulled from release before anybody got a chance to see it. It's quite good, actually. Steve McQueen -- known more for his rugged, action-packed roles -- is superb as a village doctor during the late 1800s who must speak up against an injustice taking place...even at the cost of his career and reputation. If you notice "An Enemy of the People" being shown on TV, do yourself a favor and see it. You won't be disappointed.
29 Reviews
Rarely Seen Film by Steve McQueen Contains Important Themes
atlasmb3 September 2015
From an Arthur Miller adaptation of a Henrik Ibsen play, "An Enemy of the People" is a film about a man who stands up for truth in the face of adversity. This film is shot much as a play, with a concentration on ideas and not embellishments. It was executive produced by Steve McQueen, the popular actor whose popularity was created by roles in action films, like "The Great Escape" and "Bullitt". When shown to test audiences, the reception for this film was poor, so it never saw theatrical release.
Doctor Thomas Stockmann (Steve McQueen) is a practitioner in a small town that has great hopes for tourism and financial gain due to a spring they have developed into a destination for those seeking its healthy waters. But the doctor has suspicions that the runoff from an upstream tannery is polluting the waters, creating a health risk. He takes his concerns to his brother, Peter (Charles Durning), who also happens to be the mayor and the CEO of the corporation that developed the springs.
The story is a warning about democracy/majority rule and the dynamics of mob rule. Like the town of Amity in "Jaws", the people do not want to hear news that might have a negative impact on their finances. Like the people of Salem in "The Crucible", they can be manipulated easily by those who tell them what they want to hear. And like Atticus Finch in "To Kill a Mockingbird", Dr. Stockmann is armed with the truth but finds opposition from those who are invested in any "truth" that supports their biases.
In today's terms, Stockmann is a whistleblower. He is also a man of science who realizes that others before him were persecuted for their truths. The story also contains lessons about the responsibility of newpapers and, very importantly, the right of free speech.
This is a well-crafted story, but I feel the ending is abrupt. The acting is good, but I find no Oscar-worthy performances. The sound was the only aspect of the film that I thought subpar, having an unevenness and an echo that distracted.
"An Enemy of the People" is worth seeing for its themes. Being an effort by Steve McQueen to stretch his acting muscles, it is also an interesting anomaly.
Doctor Thomas Stockmann (Steve McQueen) is a practitioner in a small town that has great hopes for tourism and financial gain due to a spring they have developed into a destination for those seeking its healthy waters. But the doctor has suspicions that the runoff from an upstream tannery is polluting the waters, creating a health risk. He takes his concerns to his brother, Peter (Charles Durning), who also happens to be the mayor and the CEO of the corporation that developed the springs.
The story is a warning about democracy/majority rule and the dynamics of mob rule. Like the town of Amity in "Jaws", the people do not want to hear news that might have a negative impact on their finances. Like the people of Salem in "The Crucible", they can be manipulated easily by those who tell them what they want to hear. And like Atticus Finch in "To Kill a Mockingbird", Dr. Stockmann is armed with the truth but finds opposition from those who are invested in any "truth" that supports their biases.
In today's terms, Stockmann is a whistleblower. He is also a man of science who realizes that others before him were persecuted for their truths. The story also contains lessons about the responsibility of newpapers and, very importantly, the right of free speech.
This is a well-crafted story, but I feel the ending is abrupt. The acting is good, but I find no Oscar-worthy performances. The sound was the only aspect of the film that I thought subpar, having an unevenness and an echo that distracted.
"An Enemy of the People" is worth seeing for its themes. Being an effort by Steve McQueen to stretch his acting muscles, it is also an interesting anomaly.
A lot like Jaws
shed46929 April 2007
The thing I noticed right away was how the plot reminded me of the original Jaws. Dealing with a life threatening problem or wanting to believe it will go away. Great movie. Steve McQueen was different from his usual but a pleasure to watch. Charles Durning was also just about at the top of his game. Robin Pearson Rose was a very interesting actress but may have had her career impeded by this first appearance, though no blame should go to her acting in this movie. The ship captain, Richard Bradford, was a treat in such a role and a reminder of how a good voice carries a performance. A great many of the secondary parts were of similar high quality actors and so familiar over the years. The odd thing was seeing it on Netflix's instant watch but the thumbnail seems to be for a Braodway performance and this rare version is what plays.
The missing McQueen.
g-amp-smckenzie2 November 2004
As every McQueen fan knows,this is the one that we all want to see...The one film that brought McQueen out of the quiet years,the one film he fought hard to bring to the big screen only for the studio to pull it after a limited release because the character didn't seem to suit McQueens fans...Well after finally seeing the film you realize just how wrong and short sighted there where... McQueen is playing Dr Thomas Stockman,trying the speak out against the greedy town's people who don't want to hear the truth about their water in the prosperous spring spa as it will drive away all the tourists with their cash...McQueen is standing up to impossible odds..not refusing to stand down or bend his principles...This is the type of character McQueen played in nearly all his other roles.
Before i saw the film i did think that perhaps McQueen wouldn't be suited to the "serious acting role" that Dr Thomas Stockman required...boy was i wrong..McQueen gives an outstanding performance...one of the best of his career & this film should be brought back out on a special edition DVD(along with Tom Horn) so all the fans can see the tour de force the film really is....
A mention must also go to the supporting cast,particularly Charles Durning who's greed & corruption really sparks against McQueens honest Doctor...also nice to see the man in a suitcase Richard Bradford in a good strong role as the Captian.
In closing this is a great movie & if you have to bid a lot on e-bay for it then do so......
Before i saw the film i did think that perhaps McQueen wouldn't be suited to the "serious acting role" that Dr Thomas Stockman required...boy was i wrong..McQueen gives an outstanding performance...one of the best of his career & this film should be brought back out on a special edition DVD(along with Tom Horn) so all the fans can see the tour de force the film really is....
A mention must also go to the supporting cast,particularly Charles Durning who's greed & corruption really sparks against McQueens honest Doctor...also nice to see the man in a suitcase Richard Bradford in a good strong role as the Captian.
In closing this is a great movie & if you have to bid a lot on e-bay for it then do so......
McQueen Miscast
smolinskimdphd14 August 2020
Great play with obvious modern relevance. I was trying to figure out the location of the story because the accents were inconsistent, but mainly quite American. Anyway, it apparently takes place in a Norwegian village. It was overall well-acted, but Steve McQueen was clearly miscast. He is a compelling presence, but not a great choice to recite Ibsen diaogue. I hate to say it because as a McQueen fan I was rooting for him, but ultimately this ends up being a vanity project to try to prove himself a capable classical actor. Sorry to say he's not. McQueen was great at what he was. For quiet, powerful roles where your face does the talking no one was better. But sometimes it's best to accept your limitations.
Over-acted and Overly dramatic...I can see why this isn't a highly regarded Mcqueen film
nomoons1121 September 2011
Warning: Spoilers
I was a little disappointed to say the least when I finished this. It was almost like watching an ABC after School Special on "sticking to your principals".
This has shades of the Salem Witch Trials all through it. Not the witches part obviously but the the town frenzy aspect and the few who are shunned and judged wrong regardless of obvious evidence. The town morons who are just too stupid to think for themselves and so the town hierarchy speak for em and they believe every word they say.
If this would have went in another direction, like say, half-way through they were to fast forward a year and see the results of the tourist season at the spa to see the outcome of the "bad water" then I would have liked this or at least respected it a little more. But as it is and was left to us, I can certainly see why this a a forgotten Mcqueen film. It was just a little over dramatic for my taste.
If you like plays, as this obviously was, and you enjoy a lot of talking and some over-acting thrown in, then this one's for you.
This has shades of the Salem Witch Trials all through it. Not the witches part obviously but the the town frenzy aspect and the few who are shunned and judged wrong regardless of obvious evidence. The town morons who are just too stupid to think for themselves and so the town hierarchy speak for em and they believe every word they say.
If this would have went in another direction, like say, half-way through they were to fast forward a year and see the results of the tourist season at the spa to see the outcome of the "bad water" then I would have liked this or at least respected it a little more. But as it is and was left to us, I can certainly see why this a a forgotten Mcqueen film. It was just a little over dramatic for my taste.
If you like plays, as this obviously was, and you enjoy a lot of talking and some over-acting thrown in, then this one's for you.
A Triumph For Steve McQueen
jhclues14 July 2000
Executive Producer and star Steve McQueen and director George Schaefer bring Henrik Ibsen's `An Enemy of the People' to the screen, giving life and imagery to the powerful words of this Master playwright. First performed on stage in Oslo in the 1880's, the story is every bit as pertinent today as it was when it was written, for the themes of right and wrong, principle and ideal, democracy and commitment are timeless. What must a man do when he knows he is right? How far should he be willing to go, how much sacrifice should be made in the name of the truth? Ibsen contends that there can be no shades of gray when it comes to such matters, that truth is nothing less than absolute, and must be maintained as such; honesty cannot be found in acquiescence to the solid majority. As Doctor Thomas Stockman, McQueen is the embodiment of morality; the good and the just, the voice of reason and truth crying out amid a wilderness of complacency, corruption and complicity, the individual against the masses. It's the strength of the pure against the desperate agenda of the moderates who would conspire and compromise away all that is holy for the sake of self-aggrandizement. This is a stirring and emotional story that exposes the heart of darkness which unfortunately dwells within the human spirit; but in doing so, it also serves to illuminate the magnanimity of that same spirit, as well. The construction is done with precision and the message is unequivocal; simply put, it is a masterful study of the human condition.
Ironically, the fate of this movie was ultimately decided by circumstances not unlike those within the story itself. Never released, still unavailable on video and very rarely shown on television (even cable, which seems quite inexplicable), the Powers that Be decided that this was not the Steve McQueen (heavier, with long hair and full beard) the public wanted to see; what `they' wanted (they contend) was a McQueen `with a gun in his hand,' and plenty of action. They decreed that a meaningful drama starring an action hero was somehow taboo. And that reasoning must be regarded now as nothing less than criminal. Because Steve McQueen is brilliant in this role; there is a depth and heart to his Stockman that wrings every bit of strength and truth out of Ibsen's words. Anyone who is lucky enough to have seen this film would agree, I believe, that its unavailability in not only unbelievable, but unforgivable. The wonderful Bibi Andersson also gives an exceptional performance here as Catherine Stockman, a part for which she could easily (and should) have received an Oscar nomination. The supporting cast includes Charles Durning (Peter Stockman), Richard Dysart (Aslaksen), Michael Cristofer (Hovstad), Michael Higgins (Billing), Eric Christmas (Morten), Robin Pearson Rose (Petra) and Richard Bradford (Captain Forster). `An Enemy of the People' is an excellent rendering of a timeless classic by one of the world's master dramatists; the movie itself is a classic in its own right. It took courage for McQueen to venture into this territory, but the result is indeed his triumph; this film deserves to be seen, and hopefully, through the magic of video, some day it will be. I rate this one 10/10.
Ironically, the fate of this movie was ultimately decided by circumstances not unlike those within the story itself. Never released, still unavailable on video and very rarely shown on television (even cable, which seems quite inexplicable), the Powers that Be decided that this was not the Steve McQueen (heavier, with long hair and full beard) the public wanted to see; what `they' wanted (they contend) was a McQueen `with a gun in his hand,' and plenty of action. They decreed that a meaningful drama starring an action hero was somehow taboo. And that reasoning must be regarded now as nothing less than criminal. Because Steve McQueen is brilliant in this role; there is a depth and heart to his Stockman that wrings every bit of strength and truth out of Ibsen's words. Anyone who is lucky enough to have seen this film would agree, I believe, that its unavailability in not only unbelievable, but unforgivable. The wonderful Bibi Andersson also gives an exceptional performance here as Catherine Stockman, a part for which she could easily (and should) have received an Oscar nomination. The supporting cast includes Charles Durning (Peter Stockman), Richard Dysart (Aslaksen), Michael Cristofer (Hovstad), Michael Higgins (Billing), Eric Christmas (Morten), Robin Pearson Rose (Petra) and Richard Bradford (Captain Forster). `An Enemy of the People' is an excellent rendering of a timeless classic by one of the world's master dramatists; the movie itself is a classic in its own right. It took courage for McQueen to venture into this territory, but the result is indeed his triumph; this film deserves to be seen, and hopefully, through the magic of video, some day it will be. I rate this one 10/10.
Brilliant!
matlock-610 August 2001
Steve McQueen made a career out of playing action roles, and although he played with a certain sense of cerebrality, by 1977 he wanted to prove that he could "act", in the classic sense. He proves beyond a doubt that he can in "An Enemy of The People", which was adapted from a play by Norwegian playwright Heinrik Ibsen.
McQueen gives a sublime performance in a film that was never properly released, promoted, or issued on video simply because the filmmakers didn't know what to do with it. It was a complete 360 degree turnaround role for McQueen, it's based on a play that, although famous, isn't well known by people who aren't college students, and they simply didn't know how to market it.
All the actors for this film were well chosen and all turn in excellent performances. McQueen himself certainly looks the part of the town doctor with his granny glasses, professor's 3 piece suit, and long shaggy beard.
It should be noted that this does appear on PBS from time to time, and videotaped versions of this are floating around. If you get a chance to see it, whether on tv or on someones videotaped version, then by all means do so.
McQueen gives a sublime performance in a film that was never properly released, promoted, or issued on video simply because the filmmakers didn't know what to do with it. It was a complete 360 degree turnaround role for McQueen, it's based on a play that, although famous, isn't well known by people who aren't college students, and they simply didn't know how to market it.
All the actors for this film were well chosen and all turn in excellent performances. McQueen himself certainly looks the part of the town doctor with his granny glasses, professor's 3 piece suit, and long shaggy beard.
It should be noted that this does appear on PBS from time to time, and videotaped versions of this are floating around. If you get a chance to see it, whether on tv or on someones videotaped version, then by all means do so.
A MAN FOR ALL SEASONS...!
masonfisk13 August 2018
One of Steve McQueen's last films which sat on a shelf for a bit & was a passion project for the late, great action star. People tells the story of a doctor who's spring, which was cultivated as a means for the townsfolk to heal themselves, is now a source of pollution. In an effort to alert his fellow neighbors of the dangers, his unscrupulous brother, who happens to be the mayor, turns against him fearing the town's future financial well-being to be in jeopardy. Adapted by Arthur Miller from an Ibsen play, this is more a filmed play than a film. One wonders why McQueen, an actor who staked his claim on less is more (he would periodically cut dialogue from his scripts) would value this talky, preachy exercise. Look for Ingmar Bergman regular Bibi Andersson as his wife.
So few people have seen this - such a waste
ptl016829 March 2006
I was fortunate enough to watch this film on Sky Cinema (for those not in the UK, this is a movie channel specialising in older films), and being a McQueen fan, was not disappointed. I had heard so much bad press about this movie before seeing it, that it was slow, boring, a waste of time and celluloid. How wrong. Yes, it may be wordy, and a bit 'stagey', but stick with it for the first 10 minutes or so and you will be hooked. Don't be put off by a bulky looking McQueen with a fearsome beard and even more fearsome hair. His performance is possibly the best of his career (barring 'The Sand Pebbles'). His support is magnificent too, especially Charles Durning as his brother. This movie may look like a TV movie in feel, but look a little deeper and there are some real powerhouse performances. Warners obviously had no idea how to market this movie, so they didn't bother. At least they released it to TV for us to enjoy. I don't believe that this movie has appeared on either DVD or Video, so I will treasure my VHS to DVD transfer to enjoy hopefully for many years to come. If this ever appears on TV again, I urge you to catch it.
Pointless
jmillerdp3 September 2015
Warning: Spoilers
There really isn't any point to this. Everyone so instantly turns against Steve McQueen's character that there is nothing to discuss. There is no conflict of ideas. Just a man who has the truth on his side being quickly beaten down and crushed.
I guess if your world view is as pitch black as this, you'll get right on board. Otherwise, you won't have any use for it. Strange what the point of Henrik Ibsen, who wrote the play, or Arthur Miller, who adapted it to English, is.
This was McQueen's passion project. But, for what reason, only he could know. He gives a good enough performance, but that doesn't change what the play is about.
**** (4 Out of 10 Stars)
I guess if your world view is as pitch black as this, you'll get right on board. Otherwise, you won't have any use for it. Strange what the point of Henrik Ibsen, who wrote the play, or Arthur Miller, who adapted it to English, is.
This was McQueen's passion project. But, for what reason, only he could know. He gives a good enough performance, but that doesn't change what the play is about.
**** (4 Out of 10 Stars)
Vastly underrated, obscure performance by Steve McQueen
Kansas-59 November 2008
Late in his brief career, Steve McQueen, a superstar for his roles in action movies, intensely wanted a chance to demonstrate his abilities in a classical framework. To that end he produced this cinematic version of the Ibsen play about a 19th-Century whistleblower and worked for scale, as did other actors. The script is adapted from the excellent adaptation done by Arthur Miller a half-century ago.
The screenplay closely follows the original work and utilizes a minimum of sets with only one exterior shoot. Despite this constriction, this film is truly unforgettable. The acting by McQueen, Richard Dysart, Charles Durning and Bibi Anderson is superb. The cinematography is excellent as well, conveying an almost tactile appreciation of period costumes and interiors of the sort found in Matewan by John Sayles.
The examination of the political and emotional whirlwinds described by Ibsen would be topical today.
The regrettable part of this enterprise was the inexplicable failure of the studio to release the film in the U.S. DVD versions can be found and used PAL videotape versions are available from the U.K., Australia and other countries that use that format.
The screenplay closely follows the original work and utilizes a minimum of sets with only one exterior shoot. Despite this constriction, this film is truly unforgettable. The acting by McQueen, Richard Dysart, Charles Durning and Bibi Anderson is superb. The cinematography is excellent as well, conveying an almost tactile appreciation of period costumes and interiors of the sort found in Matewan by John Sayles.
The examination of the political and emotional whirlwinds described by Ibsen would be topical today.
The regrettable part of this enterprise was the inexplicable failure of the studio to release the film in the U.S. DVD versions can be found and used PAL videotape versions are available from the U.K., Australia and other countries that use that format.
Believe it or not
McQueen-Fan16 June 2007
thanx to one of the guys writing here I received this tape a few years ago. And believe it or not, in my hometown - Zurich, Switzerland - they actually show this movie at the movie theater, starting next week. I can't believe this!!! Steve McQueen's acting is amazing and memorable. Actually in all of his movies - I got it all - but especially here too. It's a shame they never published this. Whenever you got the chance on watching this jewel then just do it. You might be bored at the begin, especially if you're expecting a typical McQueen- Movie. Give it a chance and don't turn off the TV after ten minutes or so. You won't regret. However, the end was a little fast (don't know exactly how to tell this in English). I am so excited to watch this at the movies next week and just can't believe it still. It's also showing on TV in the States sometimes but those people probable know this already.
Excellent despite its press.
eaglejet9820 May 2002
Not the usual Steve McQueen fare for sure, but look beyond trying to see the actor in "The Magnificent Seven" or the "Great Escape" and you'll see an excellent movie with a message.
Watch it on a cold night with your wife/girlfriend when you don't have to get up early the next day.
Watch it on a cold night with your wife/girlfriend when you don't have to get up early the next day.
How many Ibsen plays have been made into successful films? None.
BenHur5921 June 2021
I have seen this film. It was not Steve's performance. He was OK blabbering out Ibsen/Miller's lines. There simply never has been an actor that could have made this project a box-office or financial success. The problem was Steve's insistence on doing the film to try to bolster whatever acting chops he had. He didn't need to. He had talent, considering several of his earlier films, where he was quite good.
McQueen fans were robbed by Warner Brothers
the_d_files13 October 2004
First and foremost, I have waited 6 months to get this film and to watch it, I finally watched it and it was well worth the wait.
The film follows the Ibsen play very well, although I was a little disappointed with the way the film ended, it followed the story, but I don't think it was as effective as the book.
Steve McQueen is probably the only person who could bring Dr Thomas Stockman to life in the way he does. It's just a crying shame that this film never reached the cinemas (Warner Brothers didn't know what to do with it, after a few negitive reviews). Although Steve tried to get it realized in the art cinemas, it never reached the wider audience.
If you get the chance to see this film, then see it you will not be disappointed with it, Steve deserved an Oscar for his performance, (and also Papillon and the Sand Pebbles). No idea how many copies of this film are available, but I was lucky to get it imported, and I'm glad that I was able to get my hands on a copy
10 out of 10 for me
The film follows the Ibsen play very well, although I was a little disappointed with the way the film ended, it followed the story, but I don't think it was as effective as the book.
Steve McQueen is probably the only person who could bring Dr Thomas Stockman to life in the way he does. It's just a crying shame that this film never reached the cinemas (Warner Brothers didn't know what to do with it, after a few negitive reviews). Although Steve tried to get it realized in the art cinemas, it never reached the wider audience.
If you get the chance to see this film, then see it you will not be disappointed with it, Steve deserved an Oscar for his performance, (and also Papillon and the Sand Pebbles). No idea how many copies of this film are available, but I was lucky to get it imported, and I'm glad that I was able to get my hands on a copy
10 out of 10 for me
Short a classic
bkoganbing7 May 2016
Hendrik Ibsen's An Enemy Of The People maybe even more timely today than it was when it came out in the waning years of the 19th century. The story is about a doctor who has just returned home to his native Norwegian village and has discovered that the industrial spill from the tannery has polluted the mineral waters of a creek in the area. The place is getting a reputation for healing waters like Iceland's Blue Lagoon or the mineral springs in Saratoga and the town is thinking about the big bucks coming when they start promoting the town as a healing resort just like Saratoga. Especially Mayor Charles Durning.
This version could have been a classic, but for the horrible miscasting of Steve McQueen who wanted to do something different. Seeing McQueen delivering Ibsen's lines as the doctor character all I could think of was that this part cried for a classically trained actor like Richard Burton. And Burton at this time was being cast in a lot of junk way beneath him.
McQueen is a scientist and for him the issue is clear, clean up the stream. But gradually people start rationalizing why they should not do it, not the least of which is who's going to pay for it? Durning as mayor who also is McQueen's brother thinks like a politician the same way Dr. McQueen thinks like a scientist.
In my area of Western New York we famously saw industrial waste give us the poison of Love Canal. More recently we saw Tonawanda Coke caught disposing their waste in an unsafe manner. People reacted to that as surely as their past lives and occupations dictated they should
I truly wish someone would give a performance of An Enemy Of The People in Flint, Michigan because that's the example that's uppermost in the minds of today's citizen.
I only wish someone like Richard Burton or Al Pacino, possibly even Warren Beatty had done this film.
This version could have been a classic, but for the horrible miscasting of Steve McQueen who wanted to do something different. Seeing McQueen delivering Ibsen's lines as the doctor character all I could think of was that this part cried for a classically trained actor like Richard Burton. And Burton at this time was being cast in a lot of junk way beneath him.
McQueen is a scientist and for him the issue is clear, clean up the stream. But gradually people start rationalizing why they should not do it, not the least of which is who's going to pay for it? Durning as mayor who also is McQueen's brother thinks like a politician the same way Dr. McQueen thinks like a scientist.
In my area of Western New York we famously saw industrial waste give us the poison of Love Canal. More recently we saw Tonawanda Coke caught disposing their waste in an unsafe manner. People reacted to that as surely as their past lives and occupations dictated they should
I truly wish someone would give a performance of An Enemy Of The People in Flint, Michigan because that's the example that's uppermost in the minds of today's citizen.
I only wish someone like Richard Burton or Al Pacino, possibly even Warren Beatty had done this film.
Hurrah for the King of Cool!
Strelnikoff11 December 2009
Warning: Spoilers
As a childhood fan of Steve McQueen, I had been harboring in my heart for many years the hope that I would someday be able to give this up-until-recently "buried" picture a mature review. With this year's Warner Bros Archive Collection release--which amazingly, included this long-obscure title--I was able to do just that.
Prior to typing this small review; I took a moment to read the 11 other IMDb user-comments for the movie. They are all quite spot-on in their assessments. I see little that I can add to them for the purpose of simply encouraging newcomers to seek out this McQueen episode. The film is exactly what they say; and if you are fascinated by the story of how the production came into being--as I am--you will be satisfied with the end-product.
One place I veer from those reviews is in the labeling of the performances (McQueen's or Bibi Andersson's) as "Oscar deserving". The performances in this film are--I was relieved to see--universally very solid; and the actors more than stand up to the rare, theatrical material and this unusual stage/cinema experiment. But that's as far as I will go.
There are many reasons to seek out this small, quiet movie; many reasons to savor every bit of it as it unfolds; and at the end of it all, there are quite a few reasons to enjoy and value the picture. Fans of Ibsen; fans of theater itself; fans of good acting; clever period set design; those interested in political theory; and enthusiasts of 1970s movies in general, will all be pleased by this movie. It is good to know that this type of film was capable of being undertaken in 1978.
Of course, it is not a perfect outing. There is some awkwardness. There is some ineffectuality. Its a slow picture in places. And it is not a film that would have shaken the movie industry--or the world--had the studio allowed it to circulate.
I'll just tick off some personal pro's and con's:
Disliked: the camera spends far too much time on a couple of minor characters--the newspapermen (and their ethical shallowness); the romance between the newspaperman and the daughter is not developed (or later rescinded); and the ending of the movie is perplexing--this is probably the most serious flaw. The film just sort of "trails off". Additionally, the movie is almost **stolen** by a supporting character of no significance - the sea captain!
Liked: the 'family dinner' scene; the superb acting of Charles Durning; the sets and costumes; the lighting and feeling for 'small town drama'; the quality of the adaptation in general (speeches and mannerisms were modern enough to not cause any "anachronism'); the sweet title and credits montage (daguerreotype style); the wonderful supporting players; and Steve McQueen, of course.
Saving the best for last. Steve McQueen. I am so glad to be able to see him in this performance. It is just as vital to see him in this, as it is to see him in 'Papillon', 'The Reivers' and 'Thomas Crowne'. I watched with pleasure, his characterization. Because this film, as those others are, films he deliberately sought out to challenge himself; films via which he wished to broaden himself and express himself as an actor and a man. That is to say, expressing his values by his choice of roles.
It was a treat to see all the familiar McQueen mannerisms shine through--to see his mind at work in the exercise of those mannerisms for each scene; and to observe the respect he pays to his character by keeping his powers under restraint. He discards all traces of the 'movie-star' McQueen here. He is slow and careful; with fine and detailed gesture and expression. Its a respectful performance; he acknowledges the duty he owes to the noble material.
Remember that--this being entirely his production--his idea to even embark into these waters--he could have done anything he wanted. But he takes the high road. He worked for scale pay and he works in harness, like any other actor who cares about doing a good job first and foremost. Though his speeches are hoarse and controlled; though his hands shake and his shoulders are stooped--he is as powerful here in his meek, frail doctor's guise as anywhere else in his career; riding a motorcycle or what-have-you. To see him in the public meeting--after having been shouted down by his community--choosing to stride right through them with family in tow, making his way past their despising glares, is a true 'McQueen moment' and should not be missed by any of his fans.
Its a heroic role; and McQueen had a heroic role in trying to bring this odd, unwelcome project to the big screen. I am mightily proud to have been able to see it.
Prior to typing this small review; I took a moment to read the 11 other IMDb user-comments for the movie. They are all quite spot-on in their assessments. I see little that I can add to them for the purpose of simply encouraging newcomers to seek out this McQueen episode. The film is exactly what they say; and if you are fascinated by the story of how the production came into being--as I am--you will be satisfied with the end-product.
One place I veer from those reviews is in the labeling of the performances (McQueen's or Bibi Andersson's) as "Oscar deserving". The performances in this film are--I was relieved to see--universally very solid; and the actors more than stand up to the rare, theatrical material and this unusual stage/cinema experiment. But that's as far as I will go.
There are many reasons to seek out this small, quiet movie; many reasons to savor every bit of it as it unfolds; and at the end of it all, there are quite a few reasons to enjoy and value the picture. Fans of Ibsen; fans of theater itself; fans of good acting; clever period set design; those interested in political theory; and enthusiasts of 1970s movies in general, will all be pleased by this movie. It is good to know that this type of film was capable of being undertaken in 1978.
Of course, it is not a perfect outing. There is some awkwardness. There is some ineffectuality. Its a slow picture in places. And it is not a film that would have shaken the movie industry--or the world--had the studio allowed it to circulate.
I'll just tick off some personal pro's and con's:
Disliked: the camera spends far too much time on a couple of minor characters--the newspapermen (and their ethical shallowness); the romance between the newspaperman and the daughter is not developed (or later rescinded); and the ending of the movie is perplexing--this is probably the most serious flaw. The film just sort of "trails off". Additionally, the movie is almost **stolen** by a supporting character of no significance - the sea captain!
Liked: the 'family dinner' scene; the superb acting of Charles Durning; the sets and costumes; the lighting and feeling for 'small town drama'; the quality of the adaptation in general (speeches and mannerisms were modern enough to not cause any "anachronism'); the sweet title and credits montage (daguerreotype style); the wonderful supporting players; and Steve McQueen, of course.
Saving the best for last. Steve McQueen. I am so glad to be able to see him in this performance. It is just as vital to see him in this, as it is to see him in 'Papillon', 'The Reivers' and 'Thomas Crowne'. I watched with pleasure, his characterization. Because this film, as those others are, films he deliberately sought out to challenge himself; films via which he wished to broaden himself and express himself as an actor and a man. That is to say, expressing his values by his choice of roles.
It was a treat to see all the familiar McQueen mannerisms shine through--to see his mind at work in the exercise of those mannerisms for each scene; and to observe the respect he pays to his character by keeping his powers under restraint. He discards all traces of the 'movie-star' McQueen here. He is slow and careful; with fine and detailed gesture and expression. Its a respectful performance; he acknowledges the duty he owes to the noble material.
Remember that--this being entirely his production--his idea to even embark into these waters--he could have done anything he wanted. But he takes the high road. He worked for scale pay and he works in harness, like any other actor who cares about doing a good job first and foremost. Though his speeches are hoarse and controlled; though his hands shake and his shoulders are stooped--he is as powerful here in his meek, frail doctor's guise as anywhere else in his career; riding a motorcycle or what-have-you. To see him in the public meeting--after having been shouted down by his community--choosing to stride right through them with family in tow, making his way past their despising glares, is a true 'McQueen moment' and should not be missed by any of his fans.
Its a heroic role; and McQueen had a heroic role in trying to bring this odd, unwelcome project to the big screen. I am mightily proud to have been able to see it.
A town crusader trapped between the truth and his family's existence
kijii3 November 2016
Warning: Spoilers
Steve McQueen is both the Executive Producer and star of this version of Ibsen's powerful play. This is a diversion from the usual McQueen that I have grown to know over the years, but he is superb, here, as the proclaimed "Enemy of the People."
Here, McQueen plays the role of a local doctor, Doctor Thomas Stockman, who discovers that the town's water supply is "poisoned" with chemicals and bacteria from a local tannery, and he is driven to let the town know of this before it is too late. However, his brother, Peter Stockman (Charles Durning), is the mayor of the town and anxious to promote the town for its healthy spa waters. If the spa water supply is cleaned up, it would cost the town extra time and a tax increase would be necessary to pay for the cleanup. This difference between Thomas and Peter sets up a conflict in which neither side can "give in." Both sides vie for support from the town and its voice, the local newspaper.
To make matters worse, Thomas's wife, Catherine (Bibi Andersson), and family (two young boys and an older girl who works as a local nurse) are caught in the middle of what may be called "local mob violence" and have no local support and no other place to go...Peter blocks Thomas and his family from either emigrating to America or working in another town in Norway. Thomas is trapped between his discovered truth (that he cannot escape or ignore) and his own family's existence.
Here, McQueen plays the role of a local doctor, Doctor Thomas Stockman, who discovers that the town's water supply is "poisoned" with chemicals and bacteria from a local tannery, and he is driven to let the town know of this before it is too late. However, his brother, Peter Stockman (Charles Durning), is the mayor of the town and anxious to promote the town for its healthy spa waters. If the spa water supply is cleaned up, it would cost the town extra time and a tax increase would be necessary to pay for the cleanup. This difference between Thomas and Peter sets up a conflict in which neither side can "give in." Both sides vie for support from the town and its voice, the local newspaper.
To make matters worse, Thomas's wife, Catherine (Bibi Andersson), and family (two young boys and an older girl who works as a local nurse) are caught in the middle of what may be called "local mob violence" and have no local support and no other place to go...Peter blocks Thomas and his family from either emigrating to America or working in another town in Norway. Thomas is trapped between his discovered truth (that he cannot escape or ignore) and his own family's existence.
A fantastic and sad look at human nature and the destructive power of 'democracy'.
planktonrules14 April 2016
I can understand the studio's apprehension to show this film in the States. After all, it lacks the story elements that are supposed to make a film marketable. The only thing it does have is fantastic writing (from a play by Henrik Ibsen) and a story that has a lot to say about human nature and the destructive power of the people.
This story is set in Norway in the 19th century. A town is anticipating becoming rich as a spa town and there is a minor unanticipated glitch. The doctor who works for the spa owners (Steve McQueen) had the water tested and has found it's filled with harmful bacteria which is the result from runoff from a nearby tannery. At first, most of the folks he tells seem appreciative that this was discovered. But over time, selfish self-interest turns the town into a lynch mob and the power of the majority turns out to be a dangerous thing.
This story is a HUGE change of pace for McQueen and it is relatively slow paced. But it also is brilliant and incredibly insightful...and packs a very, very strong emotional impact as you watch. Exceptional and well worth seeing...even if it is among McQueen's least known films.
This story is set in Norway in the 19th century. A town is anticipating becoming rich as a spa town and there is a minor unanticipated glitch. The doctor who works for the spa owners (Steve McQueen) had the water tested and has found it's filled with harmful bacteria which is the result from runoff from a nearby tannery. At first, most of the folks he tells seem appreciative that this was discovered. But over time, selfish self-interest turns the town into a lynch mob and the power of the majority turns out to be a dangerous thing.
This story is a HUGE change of pace for McQueen and it is relatively slow paced. But it also is brilliant and incredibly insightful...and packs a very, very strong emotional impact as you watch. Exceptional and well worth seeing...even if it is among McQueen's least known films.
Made for TV in Dullsville, Denmark
ArtVandelayImporterExporter14 August 2020
If you read McQueen's obit in the LATimes you'll learn this movie was shelved for years before it got released to what was then called Pay TV (what the kids would these days call cable). Another reviewer said it pops up on PBS once in a while, which fits, since it's certainly dull enough.
The story is super boring. The performances are sleepy. The camera work is pure TV. I don't think there's a single shot in the entire movie where the camera moves.
If the mesothelioma hadn't killed McQueen, this movie would have at least buried his career.
The story is super boring. The performances are sleepy. The camera work is pure TV. I don't think there's a single shot in the entire movie where the camera moves.
If the mesothelioma hadn't killed McQueen, this movie would have at least buried his career.
50 Years On, It Has Become Great
Easygoer1028 September 2019
Warning: Spoilers
When this film was released in 1978, it was nothing like what McQueen fans had come to expect, myself included. It dumbfounded both critics and fans alike. The reason why is now so very clear: It was decades ahead of it's time. The core plot is about unclean water, but it goes further into climate change, which at that time was virtually unheard of. Ov er 40 years on, it makes complete sense. I am a huge fan of Steve McQueen, dating back to his earliest roile as "Josh Randall" on the TV series, "Wanted: Dead or Alive" (1958 to 1961). In this film, the fact that he teamed up with gorgeous and extremely talented actress, Bibi Andersson, was no accident. Ms. Andersson had been directed in 5 films by the legendary Ingmar Begman. This film was one of the few McQueen made between 1975 and his tragic death only 5 years later in 1980 at age 50. He died from complications from surgery to remove a huge tumor. However, the true cause of this was a rare form of cancer, which is caused by Mesothelioma, one of the deadliest forms (of cancer). This typically comes from expsuure to asbestos. This happened to McQueen while he was in the Marines (1947 to 1950). He was punished for going off base without leave (he was chasing some girl around). As punishment, he was ordered to clean out the lagging from inside the hull of some older ships; lagging which contained asbestos. Mesothelioma takes well over 20 years from initial exposure to become deadly. In his case, it took about 30 years, as he served from age 17 to 20. There is still no cure. Regardless, for me, Steve McQueen is the most iconic actor from the latter half of the 20th Century, and James Cagney is the most iconic actor of from the first half. This is a must see film; especially for Steve McQueen fans.
Stand, Don't Run
frankwiener11 September 2020
While the full beard, long hair, and nineteenth century Norwegian setting may be a novelty for Steve McQueen, the iconic actor was no stranger to strong characters who faced formidable opponents and very high-risk situations. In this very important, classic play by Henrik Ibsen, directed by George Schaefer and adapted for the screen by Arthur Miller, McQueen plays doctor-scientist Tom Stockmann who discovers that his town's springs, an important source of its economic well being, have been poisoned by bacteria sourced to a nearby tannery. What makes the situation more complicated is that the tannery just happens to be owned by his father-in-law, Morton Kiil. While he has the outward image of a feeble, old man, Kiil is a very nasty, ruthless individual. Kiil is a killer.
While the local media at first wants to sensationalize the story of the contaminated springs, they decide at some point that it's too hot to handle and want to tone it down by distorting the truth. They not only abandon Tom but conspire with his brother (Charles Durning), the mayor of the town, to destroy Tom personally, professionally, and economically on account of his unyielding position regarding the poisoned springs. What "muddies the waters" even more is that the family of Tom's wife (Bibi Andersson) has not only owned the tannery but her own father, Kiil, decides to manipulate the value of the springs as a result of the bad publicity.
When the entire town turns against it, the Stockman family considers leaving it and Norway itself for the United States. In the end, Tom convinces them to stay and to fight. While other IMDb reviewers see "Jaws" here, I see Terry Malloy of "On the Waterfront". Dr. Stockman may be more formally educated than Malloy, and the small town in Norway is very far from the Hoboken of Hudson County, New Jersey, but the fight against a very powerful and intimidating system of local corruption is very similar and equally compelling, at least in my view. I was born and raised in the northeast corner of New Jersey, see.
The still, sepia shots of nineteenth century Norway, accompanied by the beautiful theme song by Leonard Rosenman, during the opening credits effectively connect the film to its historical era, and I like how they transition into the opening scene of a color movie. The entire cast is excellent and worthy of the very serious script and subject matter, most notably McQueen, Andersson, and Durning. McQueen also served as executive producer only two years before his tragic, untimely death in 1980. There have been several film and television adaptations of this classic, but, for me, this is the best.
While the local media at first wants to sensationalize the story of the contaminated springs, they decide at some point that it's too hot to handle and want to tone it down by distorting the truth. They not only abandon Tom but conspire with his brother (Charles Durning), the mayor of the town, to destroy Tom personally, professionally, and economically on account of his unyielding position regarding the poisoned springs. What "muddies the waters" even more is that the family of Tom's wife (Bibi Andersson) has not only owned the tannery but her own father, Kiil, decides to manipulate the value of the springs as a result of the bad publicity.
When the entire town turns against it, the Stockman family considers leaving it and Norway itself for the United States. In the end, Tom convinces them to stay and to fight. While other IMDb reviewers see "Jaws" here, I see Terry Malloy of "On the Waterfront". Dr. Stockman may be more formally educated than Malloy, and the small town in Norway is very far from the Hoboken of Hudson County, New Jersey, but the fight against a very powerful and intimidating system of local corruption is very similar and equally compelling, at least in my view. I was born and raised in the northeast corner of New Jersey, see.
The still, sepia shots of nineteenth century Norway, accompanied by the beautiful theme song by Leonard Rosenman, during the opening credits effectively connect the film to its historical era, and I like how they transition into the opening scene of a color movie. The entire cast is excellent and worthy of the very serious script and subject matter, most notably McQueen, Andersson, and Durning. McQueen also served as executive producer only two years before his tragic, untimely death in 1980. There have been several film and television adaptations of this classic, but, for me, this is the best.
"It has happened before and will happen again."
AllanHy24 March 2016
I am sure when this play was written in 1883 it was viewed as "revolutionary" because the majority of society did not understand the methodology of science.
We assume a century and a half later, mostly because we are communicating over electronic images, that our technology and education will overcome such anti-technology and self-destructive stupidities.
Wrong.
When you realize the suppression of science that resulted in the lead in the water of Flint Michigan, the destruction of the Challenger space shuttle, or the political lies of the 2003 (non-existent) Iraqi Weapons of Mass Destruction, or the 1964 Gulf of Tonkin Resolution, the fragility of truth and science becomes terrifying.
We assume a century and a half later, mostly because we are communicating over electronic images, that our technology and education will overcome such anti-technology and self-destructive stupidities.
Wrong.
When you realize the suppression of science that resulted in the lead in the water of Flint Michigan, the destruction of the Challenger space shuttle, or the political lies of the 2003 (non-existent) Iraqi Weapons of Mass Destruction, or the 1964 Gulf of Tonkin Resolution, the fragility of truth and science becomes terrifying.
This is the hardest review I have ever made about a film, and why ?
michaelt28170208524 April 2012
Warning: Spoilers
I am a Steve Mqueen fan just like millions of people round the world, I am also a political campaigner. And I am a philosopher. I am a thinker. I have an enquiring mind. I do not follow the crowd.
I believe that the majority vote, is not always right, because they are not always right, as expressed by Mqueen's character in the film as a Scientist. And this is referred to as democracy, well in many cases democracy is an ass, but it's all we have in the real world.
So I am well able to understand Mqueens character's frustrations in facing the ridicule of others, which is primarily what this movie is about.
It has been said that Mqueen made this film, because he wanted to prove he could act, by this I am assuming that he did not make this film because he believed in the writers objective argument.
I found this out about Mqueen's reasons, after I saw the film, and therefore I was if they are true, very disappointed in Steve Mqueen as a real person.
However, if none of what I am saying bothers whomever is reading this, do please see the film, it delivers a punch when a meeting is held, which the town's corrupt Mayor turns on it's head for his own purposes which are supported by the crowd who turn up.
I give this movie 10, because of it's message about how easy it is to make fools of people who don't think for themselves.
There is an old saying. "bullshit baffles brains".
How true this is in America today while Obama is trying to help his fellow American's, and in Britain a right wing lead coalition is creating mass unemployment as an inflationary tool.
I wonder what Steve Mqueen would have thought about all this, had he not died many years ago ?
I believe that the majority vote, is not always right, because they are not always right, as expressed by Mqueen's character in the film as a Scientist. And this is referred to as democracy, well in many cases democracy is an ass, but it's all we have in the real world.
So I am well able to understand Mqueens character's frustrations in facing the ridicule of others, which is primarily what this movie is about.
It has been said that Mqueen made this film, because he wanted to prove he could act, by this I am assuming that he did not make this film because he believed in the writers objective argument.
I found this out about Mqueen's reasons, after I saw the film, and therefore I was if they are true, very disappointed in Steve Mqueen as a real person.
However, if none of what I am saying bothers whomever is reading this, do please see the film, it delivers a punch when a meeting is held, which the town's corrupt Mayor turns on it's head for his own purposes which are supported by the crowd who turn up.
I give this movie 10, because of it's message about how easy it is to make fools of people who don't think for themselves.
There is an old saying. "bullshit baffles brains".
How true this is in America today while Obama is trying to help his fellow American's, and in Britain a right wing lead coalition is creating mass unemployment as an inflationary tool.
I wonder what Steve Mqueen would have thought about all this, had he not died many years ago ?
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