The Cruel Sea

Overview

At the start of World War II, Cmdr. Ericson is assigned to convoy escort HMS Compass Rose with inexperienced officers and men just out of training. The winter seas make life miserable enough, but the men must also harden themselves to rescuing survivors of U-Boat attacks, while seldom able to strike back. Traumatic events afloat and ashore create a warm bond between the skipper and his first officer.

Directed by Charles Frend

Top cast

Jack Hawkins

Ericson

Donald Sinden

Lockhart

Denholm Elliott

Morell

John Stratton

Ferraby

Stanley Baker

Bennett

Liam Redmond

Watts

Meredith Edwards

Yeoman Wells

Bruce Seton

Tallow

John Warner

Baker

Barry Letts

Raikes

Gerard Heinz

Polish Captain

Fred Griffiths

Gracey

Glyn Houston

Phillips

Virginia McKenna

Julie Hallam

Megs Jenkins

Tallow's Sister

June Thorburn

Doris Ferraby

Moira Lister

Elaine Morell

Alec McCowen

Tonbridge

L

Leo Phillips

Wainwright

D

Dafydd Havard

Signalman Rose

Details