On the Waterfront at Brattle Theatre

The Brattle is pleased to welcome William Mann, author of the new biography, The Contender: The Story of Marlon Brando, for this special book signing and film screening. In one of his many iconic roles, Brando plays Terry Malloy, a dockworker who is caught up with a mob-connected, corrupt union boss named Friendly (Cobb). When Terry finds himself connected to the murder of another dockworker, he develops a conscience – with the help of a well-meaning priest (Malden) and the beautiful sister of the victim (Saint) – and eventually finds the strength to stand up to Friendly.

Staff Pick! Joey: “A masterpiece on all fronts, from the fiery Budd Schulberg script to Leonard Bernstein’s timeless score.”

“Under Elia Kazan’s direction, Marlon Brando puts on a spectacular show, giving a fascinating, multi-faceted performance.” – Variety

“Indisputably one of the great American films, its power undiminished.” – Kenneth Turan, Los Angeles Times

“It is still possible to feel the power of the film and of Brando and Kazan, who changed American movie acting forever.” – Roger Ebert, Chicago Sun-Times