There are many people out there who want to villify Kazan as he named names during the HUAC hearings, although I usually find that those people are ignorant of the actual events surrounding his testimony, and his great torment before, during and after his decision to cooperate. No matter what you may personally think of him, On the Waterfront is a stunningly personal and deeply relevatory film about guilt and moral responsibility. Anchored by Brando’s greatest and least mannered performance, the film draws you into his character’s agony at the choices he’s faced with. It shows you the cost of making a moral choice, right or wrong, and holds you riveted until the final, triumphant moment.