The African Queen

UK/US (1951): Adventure/Romance/War

The 1951 John Huston classic, set in Africa during World War I, garnered Humphrey Bogart an Oscar for his role as a hard-drinking riverboat captain in Africa, who provides passage for a Christian missionary spinster (Katharine Hepburn). Taking an instant, mutual dislike to one another, the two endure rough waters, the presence of German soldiers, and their own bickering to finally fall into one another's arms.

This is classic Huston material -- part adventure, part quest -- but this time with a pair of characters who'd all but given up on happiness. Bogart and Hepburn have never been better, and support from frequent Huston crony Robert Morley adds some extra dimension and color. Supporting cast includes Peter Bull and Theodore Bikel. (Romulus/UA) (Amazon.com)

 Use this link to view the original theatrical trailer for The African Queen on TCM.com.

4 nominations, 1 Award