MovieChat Forums > The Sergeant (1968) Discussion > WOW what a performance by Rod Steiger - ...

WOW what a performance by Rod Steiger - spoliers included

posted 14 years ago by mittelbergjr
4 replies | jump to latest

I love old movies and have seen a number of them but I can say I had never heard about this one until I was looking through my cable guide and came across this one. I wanted to see it more for John Phillip Law but considered it a bonus for Steiger being in it. I watched it last night and was blown away. Not just because of the subject matter of the film for the late 60's but for Steiger's magnificent performance as a man trying to come to terms with his homosexuality and also being a Master Sergeant in the Army. I was even shocked near the end when Steiger planted a kiss on Law and the look on Steiger's face when Law basically rejects the attraction and the kiss. I actually felt really bad for Steiger. The look of anguish on his face. I did feel that this movie could not have a happy ending and man I was right. I won't give it away to anyone who may not have seen this. Excellent film. If Steiger was not nominated for this well he should have been. I bet this movie raised more than a few eyebrows in its day. This one is definitely worth checking out.

[–] StrangerandPilgrim 14 years ago

I love Rod Steiger but I found NOTHING sympathetic about his character. I found him to be a repugnant personality.
Marlon Brando, on the other hand, in his portrayal of a repressed homosexual Army (Captain/sergeant? I don't remember...) to me was VERY sympathetic. I was moved and touched by that personality. THIS ONE...NO.

[–] jamest155 14 years ago

I agree that the great Rod Steiger was magnificant in this film. Mr. Steiger gave one of the most emotionally raw performances I have ever seen. I wish it did not end the way it did, but that was the 1960's. What a wonderful actor at the height of his abilities.

[–] okrim37 13 years ago

I'm not really a great fan of Mr. Steiger, but I admire this perf, along with the ones he gave in THE PAWNBROKER and ON THE WATERFRONT!

[–] dingduder 11 years ago

Agree 100%, a brilliant underrated movie with a masterful performance from Steiger. Watch "Across the Bridge" if you get the chance, another great Steiger movie.