Rulers of the Sea

Ruler of the Seas is an American adventure film from the year 1939. Frank Lloyd, who directed the film for Paramount Pictures, was based on the journey of the Savannah, the first steamship in 1819 crossed the Atlantic Ocean.

Action

Scotland in the 19th century. David Gillespie, helmsman aboard the schooner Falcon quits. The reason is the brutality of the captain Oliver over its sailors. Oliver has to answer for the death of two sailors. In a pub Gillespie met the engineer John Shaw. Gillespie is thrilled with Shaw's idea of a new steamboat and spending from now on day and night with the engineer to build a model. Shaw's daughter Mary protested against the workaholism of her father.

The model is brought to an end. With the plan sketches to Gillespie makes his way to London to zufinden a financier. Gillespie has no success, his funds are running low. He meets Junius Smith, a shipowner who acts with perishable goods. Smith is excited about the idea and committed Gillespie and Shaw. One night there is an accident. The drunken Shaw accidentally sets the steam engine on fire. The work is set back several months. The awarded by the Royal Navy price for the first Atlantic crossing seems due to the rising competition in the distance. Smith rises the Dog Star, a steamship with an obsolete technology. Gillespie and Shaw to rebuild the old steam engine.

With Mary as a stewardess, the Dog Star is running out for their first ride. Gillespie's dream to lead as captain the ship is destroyed by the Royal Navy, who insists to use their own captain. Gillespie is content to work as a machinist with Shaw in the engine room. During the journey Mary and Gillespie come closer. You want to get married after the trip. The cruise runs smoothly until a pipe explodes. Shaw is seriously injured in the accident. Against all odds, the tube can be repaired. The Dog Star reached New York in the allotted time. The dying Shaw granted the couple his blessing and asked Gillespie to realize his dreams.

Criticism

The lexicon of the International film described the film as "an expertly staged adventure film that cleverly blends tension with humor. "

Wrote Frank S. Nugent of the New York Times, Frank Lloyd celebrate the victory of steam over sail in a respectable movie. He was good to look at. The backgrounds are clear learn the actors.

Background

The film premiered on November 8, 1939 in New York. In Germany, it was first shown on December 6, 1980 at the German television in a broadcast ARD.

Designer of the film were Hans Dreier and John B. Goodman. For special effects, it Farciot Edouard and Gordon Jennings.

1939 in film Screenplay Richard J. Collins Talbot Jennings Film score Richard Hageman Paul Weatherwax George Bancroft (actor) SS Savannah John B. Goodman (art director)
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