Starring legends Clark Gable and Burt Lancaster, 1958's "Run Silent, Run Deep" is a typical World War II Submarine adventure.

What makes this one not so typical though, is the incredible tension and suspense that happens on board the sub, the USS Nerka. Capt. Richardson (Gable) has been sidelined after being sunk in the Pacific by the Japanese once already. Capt. Bledsoe (Lancaster) is the upcoming officer who is given XO status on board Richardson's new command.

However, Richardson has a different agenda, namely revenge against the Japanese destroyer who sunk him and three others in the same section of sea. Of course he doesn't come right out and say it, which brings suspicion and doubt for the rest of the crew.

In the end, Richardson suffers a nasty head injury, which proves to be his downfall. Before that he saves the day by figuring out the mystery which had proved so elusive to the four previous victims.

The acting of course is superb with this cast, which also includes Jack Warden and Don Rickles(!) The effects consist mostly of models it would seem, but its not that badly done. Most of the film takes place below decks or on the bridge anyway, so its not a big detraction.

This is one of those classics that will continue to surprise folks like me who really weren't expecting all that much. Be sure to put this on your "to watch" list.

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