Watch Young Captives

Young Captives is a coming of age drama, released in 1959, which tells the story of a group of teenagers who run away from home and become stranded on a deserted island. The movie is directed by Irvin Kershner and stars Steven Marlo as Brice, Luana Patten as Dorothy, and Tom Selden as Charlie. The film opens with Brice, Dorothy and Charlie, three troubled teenagers, who are tired of their mundane suburban lives and decide to run away from home in search of adventure. They steal a boat, intending to take a short stay on a nearby island before returning back to their homes. However, their adventure quickly turns into a nightmare when they become lost and stranded on a deserted island with no food, water, or shelter. The teenagers soon realize that they were not prepared for the harsh reality of survival in the wild.

As they struggle to survive, the dynamics between the three friends begin to shift, and they start to confront their personal demons. Brice, the leader of the group, tries to maintain order, but his control is soon challenged when his own insecurities are exposed. Dorothy, a vulnerable and naive girl, is forced to confront her romantic feelings for Brice, while Charlie, a sensitive artist, struggles with his own feelings of inadequacy.

The movie explores themes of youth rebellion, identity, and self-discovery. It depicts the teenagers as lost souls, trying to cope with the challenges of growing up in an uncertain and changing world. The director, Irvin Kershner, provides an intimate portrayal of teenage life, which is both tender and raw.

The cinematography in the film is captivating. The lush greenery of the island, coupled with sweeping panoramas of the ocean, provide for stunning visuals. Each shot is carefully crafted to highlight the isolation and desperation of the teenage characters, as they are forced to make life-and-death decisions. The score by composer Ernest Gold is hauntingly beautiful and adds to the emotional weight of the movie.

One of the strengths of the film is the strong performances by the leads. Steven Marlo delivers a commanding performance as Brice, the charismatic but flawed leader. Luana Patten is also impressive as Dorothy, conveying a sense of vulnerability and emotional depth. Tom Selden provides an understated but moving performance as Charlie, the quiet observer.

The movie's conclusion is both thought-provoking and poignant, as the teenagers come to terms with their situation and gain newfound wisdom. The resolution is satisfying, neatly tying up the plot while leaving room for interpretation.

Overall, Young Captives is an excellent movie that resonates with audiences even after all these years. It presents a timeless tale of youthful exploration and rebellion, and the pursuit of personal growth. The performances are genuine, the visuals are breathtaking, and the plot keeps the viewer engaged until the very end. Young Captives is a must-watch for fans of classic coming-of-age films, and a testament to the enduring power of cinema.