The World in His Arms (1952)

Review by All Movie Guide
Although it has its ups and downs, The World in His Arms is generally a good action-adventure-romance yarn. Chief among its assets is the thrilling sea race that is the centerpiece of the film, with Gregory Peck and Anthony Quinn racing up the west coast in a competition that will make one and ruin the other. Credit goes to director Raoul Walsh, whose muscular style is ideal for this type of sequence; he revels in the ocean spray, the waves, the beauty of the magnificent ships in combat. There's so much spirit and heart in this sequence that you can practically touch it. (Credit is also due the expert work of cinematographer Harold Belfer and editor Frank Gross in this section.) If the rest of the film were as exciting as this section, it would be a masterpiece. Unfortunately, this isn't the case -- but fortunately, much of the rest of the film is still quite good and at its worst it's still average. The biggest problem lies with Peck, a superb actor who brings enormous skill to the part but who simply lacks the overt derring-do and danger that is part of the role. No such qualms with Quinn, who plays the part as if he were born to it. Ann Blyth does well as the love interest, and looks lovely. Not perfect, World is still well worth a look. ~ Craig Butler, All Movie Guide