Watch The Angry Silence

The Angry Silence is a 1960 British drama film directed by Guy Green and starring Richard Attenborough, Pier Angeli, and Michael Craig. The film tells the story of Tom Curtis (Attenborough), a factory worker and union member who refuses to take part in a strike called by his union. Tom's decision to continue working quickly alienates him from his colleagues, who see him as a scab and a traitor. The situation becomes even more tense as Tom's bosses and the union leaders try to coerce him into joining the strike, using both friendly persuasion and strong-arm tactics.

Throughout the film, Tom remains resolute in his conviction that striking is not the answer, and that there must be a better way to improve working conditions and wages. He faces increasing hostility and violence from his former friends and coworkers, and even his wife (played by Angeli) struggles to understand his position.

At the heart of The Angry Silence is a deeply human drama about the power of individual agency and the consequences of standing up for one's beliefs. Tom's refusal to take part in the strike puts him in direct opposition to the groupthink and herd mentality of the union, and he quickly becomes a symbol of dissent and resistance.

The film also explores issues of class, power, and social conformity. Tom is a working-class man who must navigate the complex hierarchy of the factory and the union, both of which are dominated by those with more money and influence. His choice to go against the group is a dangerous one, and the film shows how those in power will go to great lengths to preserve their control and authority.

Attenborough's performance as Tom is outstanding, conveying both the inner turmoil and the quiet strength of a man who refuses to be cowed by his peers or his bosses. His character is complex and multifaceted, and the film does a great job of exploring the various factors that drive him to take such a firm stand.

The other performances in the film are also excellent, particularly Craig as the union leader who becomes increasingly desperate to bring Tom into line. The tension between him and Attenborough is palpable, and their scenes together are some of the most memorable in the film.

Overall, The Angry Silence is a powerful and thought-provoking drama that still resonates today. Its themes of individualism, resistance, and the struggle against conformity are timeless, and the film is a testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of oppression and hardship.

The Angry Silence is a 1960 drama with a runtime of 1 hour and 35 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2.