An odd film for sure. What begins as a domestic melodrama, set in the upper class reaches of naval society, turns into an unexpected, frantic race for survival. Based on a handful of films I've seen, Tallulah Bankhead's acting isn't something to be too excited about. Given the ludicrous plot development in the film's first half, she comes through with an acceptable performance, nothing more. We don't see enough of Cary Grant to full evaluate his contribution; he just looks good for the part. Regarding Gary Cooper, this is one of the worst early acting appearances by a future major star. He simply recites most of his lines and the chemistry between him and Bankhead is, in a word, nonexistent. Many feel that this early film role for Charles Laughton makes the film worth seeing. The great actor certainly is into his part, enjoying his nasty manipulations all the way. But I'd not call this one of Laughton's great moments on screen.
Review of Devil and the Deep
