Title: The African Queen
Starring: Katharine Hepburn and Humphrey Bogart
Directed by: John Huston
Number on the AFI list: 65
Year: 1951
Wow, what an adventure! Filmed on location in Congo, The African Queen is a tremendous story
about Charlie Allnut (Bogart) and Rose Sayer (Hepburn) travelling along a river
in Africa after the outbreak of WWI in order to blow up a German ship. This
unlikely duo-one a poor Canadian outcast and the other a British missionary who
has just lost her brother-find love in the midst of hardship along the way. The
acting of course is spectacular, with Bogart winning the Academy Award for his
performance (beating out Brando in “Streetcar,”
no less!) in 1952. Watching their love story unfold is endearing, with many
humorous moments while Rose tries to resist the temptation of falling for
Charlie. Of course, who can resist a man who takes you on an epic journey
through the African jungle!
What makes the film more spectacular is the cinematography;
even though there is nothing remarkable about the shooting style, the fact that
they shot most of it in Africa (in glorious Technicolor!) is quite the
achievement for that day in age. The Technicolor camera was HUGE, with three
rolls of film being shot at one time.
The crew had the arduous task of
travelling along the river with the Technicolor camera, lights, and other
equipment, all while suffering from any and all illnesses the African jungle had
to offer.
Overall, this movie is a treat to watch and one that will be
remembered through the ages.
Favorite moment: The moment when Rose finally gives into Charlie and allows herself to fall in love!
Will I watch it again: Yes!
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