Elia Kazan’s “On the Waterfront,” a robust drama about corruption and redemption amongst longshoremen, doesn’t explicitly characteristic the American Independence Day vacation. The movie’s narrative unfolds throughout a broader timeline of labor disputes and private struggles, with no scenes particularly depicting or referencing July 4th celebrations. Due to this fact, a direct connection between the movie and this nationwide vacation isn’t readily obvious throughout the film’s plot.
Whereas the movie lacks a direct depiction of the vacation, thematic parallels might be drawn. The movie facilities on Terry Malloy’s wrestle to interrupt free from the corrupt system that controls the docks. This combat for particular person liberty and integrity might be considered as embodying the spirit of independence celebrated on July 4th. Malloy’s eventual testimony in opposition to the union boss, Johnny Pleasant, represents a type of private liberation and a rejection of oppression, echoing the nation’s historic rejection of tyranny.
