Why does a sumptously-produced, mystery-action film with two first-tier stars (Gary Cooper, Charleton Heston)sink without a trace? THE WRECK OF THE MARY DEARE is the perfect example of the "art" of movie-making. Add a stirring musical score, a love interest and a modicum of humor, and this film could have been a big hit in 1959. Sadly, it lacks all three. It is surprising to see Charleton Heston playing a supporting role, even to Gary Cooper. Even before BEN HUR, Heston had graduated to top billing. Two major pluses in this film are the stunts and the special effects. These would be impressive today. They were phenomenal in 1959. The movie is worth seeing for them alone. Sadly, that's just about all you get
Review of The Wreck of the Mary Deare
