For a near-championship boxer to fall out of the limelight after a defeat is quite common, but losing due to his brother betting against him is unheard of. Elia Kazan's On the Waterfront portrays the role of this ex-fighter who lives his life as a bum under the command of a local mafia boss. This film differs from how films are portrayed today. It didn't have many fast-paced chase scenes, huge battles, or over-the-top special effects. This film focuses on its characters, depicting their reactions to the cumbersome niche they fill in the shipyard. It was driven by a series of intertwining conflicts and a strong mix of character development and storytelling, and a phenomenal work of art was created. Conflict is what viewers watch movies for, and a series of well-developed conflicts all wrapped into a single film is a recipe for success. Kazan's portrayal of Terry Malone, the former boxer who lost fame due to a gambling operation, shows many aspects of a person's life when controlled by oppressors. His main conflicts include his inner turmoil over the death of a fellow dock worker, the constant pounding of grief in the form of Joey's sister Edie, and the ever-vigilant preaching of Father Berry. At the beginning of the film, Terry is asked to send Joey Doyle, a fellow dock worker, to the roof of his apartment to talk to some mobsters. Unbeknownst to Terry, Joey is killed and no one is blamed for the crime. Terry is burdened by the knowledge that he has evoked Joey Doyle's death, and throughout the film he is tormented by memories of his death. He is given Joey's coat in memory of him and helps the viewer sympathize with the oppressed protagonist. Edie Doyle is simply a young woman hoping to find the man responsible for her brother's death... middle of paper... death was completely muffled by the horns of ships and barges. I think this took something away from the scene, as the dialogue has helped fuel the story thus far, and such a critical scene disguised to show "pure emotion" overdramatized me. In conclusion, Elia Kazan's portrayal of a young savior attempting to bring justice to those who oppress and give a better life to those around him was superbly done. From a series of complex conflicts that extended to much more than just a death, to the pure feelings it evokes through the use of characters and plot; Kazan has created a critically acclaimed work of art that tells the dark story of a man who rises up against a monopoly for the good of those around him. This film showcases his artistry and helps inspire new filmmakers every day: creating storytellers who can tell stories that mesmerize audiences for generations to come..