plwblj — 11 years ago(October 14, 2014 11:02 PM)

Cambreau is what and who makes the film;he's the core,the magnet,if you will.I like Gable,Lucas,etc.But,the charismatic Hunter establishes this MGM TALE to a "cut above" an actioner,or,simply some other dramatic story.There is an intensity to what "really matters" in life esp.when one reaches the dregs such as Vern and the others do.
Fortunately,it is NOT preachy or particularly moralizing.That part of it brings the flic into more or less a special orbit.In fact,I really did not know how the movie would play out !
Notice,too,how "the legalist" bible thumper who consigns literally everyone in the barracks to hell,how he's a very secondary role who greatly contrasts Hunter's who is full of grace and wishes to be at anyone's beck and call if they need a friend,a counselor or a wise man.This per se is unusual and enhances the story of redemption to even the "lowliest of the low."
Indeed this is accomplished with a deft touch and integrates well in the tapestry of this "Strange Cargo"