Elia Kazan’s “On the Waterfront,” a strong 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. Subsequently, a direct connection between the movie and this nationwide vacation is just not readily obvious throughout the film’s plot.
Whereas the movie lacks a direct depiction of the vacation, thematic parallels could 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 could 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.
