Errol John, Gerald Onn, Humphrey Bogart

A burly ship captain helps the old maid sister of a dead missionary ellude the Germans while not to killing each other on a boat ride through Africa.

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87% liked it

26,052 ratings

Critics

100% liked it

27 critics

Unrated, 1 hr. 3 min.

Directed by: John Huston

Release Date: December 23, 1951

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DVD Release Date: July 9, 2004

Stats: 1,264 reviews

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Flixster Reviews (1,264)


  • September 21, 2009
    Regarded as one of the greatest love stories of all time, nominated for 4 Oscars and 2 Baftas, rated as the 201st best film of all time and is loved by millions around the globe. Its script is poor, the direction is shoddy and Bogart & Hepburn have never overacted so much in the...( read more) whole of their careers. I hate it and I don?t really understand all the fuss!
  • August 12, 2008
    Finally got it on dvd, featuring two of the greatest 'old time' actors Hollywood had to offer, by all means it isn't for everyone, but if you like a good old adventure, some romance and sharp dialogue you're in for a treat.
  • May 1, 2008
    unforgetable classic. it sets new heights of on location films. plus this is a pair of extrodinary actors at career highs, making this spactacular film. plus john huston's best ever, and thats impressive..
  • April 21, 2008
    "Well I ain't sorry for you no more, ya crazy, psalm-singing, skinny old maid!"

    By this time in his career, John Huston was already established as a capable filmmaker who had previously helmed such classics as The Maltese Falcon and The Treasure of the Sierra ...( read more)Madre. And of course, Huston could only call one man to fill the title role: Humphrey Bogart. The African Queen is deservedly an incredible classic that rightfully sits amongst the greatest films of all time. Films like these can still be thoroughly enjoyed even during the time of modern cinema.

    Humphrey Bogart and Katherine Hepburn make a magnificent screen couple in this dazzling, exciting adventure film set during World War I. Bogart is Charlie Allnut; an aging alcoholic who lives in the forests of Africa and owns a boat called The African Queen. As Charlie arrives at a small African village he discovers that the Germans had attacked recently; capturing many of the Africans that resided there. Charlie agrees to take a woman missionary named Rose (Hepburn) under his wing to ensure her survival for the duration of the war. Although the two have their bitter differences, they travel in The African Queen downstream with hope of sinking a German ship that would assist the allies in winning the war. Predictably, the two fall in love during their unique river adventure.

    The African Queen was widely acclaimed by both critics and audiences upon release, and is still a much loved classic to this very day. It's a shame that many moviegoers overlook this movie due to its age because quite frankly this film is superior to a lot of rubbish produced by Hollywood in this day and age. Humphrey Bogart delivers another critically acclaimed performance as the aging sea captain. This is most certainly a change on his usual character; instead of being charismatic and charming, Bogart is an alcoholic with a short temper and doesn't care much for his surroundings. Katherine Hepburn was a remarkable companion for Bogey in this one. Because she is so sophisticated and a real lady, it was quite hilarious at times because Bogey's character is the complete opposite.

    John Huston's directing is superb as always. He is able to utilise such gorgeous locations to make the viewer really feel in the centre of the dense jungle. The atmosphere is very genuine and very colourful. On top of all this, some great visuals are accompanied by a pleasant score. The script was exceptionally written and contains some very naturalistic dialogue.

    The African Queen scores as a highly enjoyable adventure film that was filmed beautifully on location in Africa. Highly recommended!
  • March 1, 2008
    Another of the greatest movies of all time -- Both Kate and Bogie give their best --
  • November 21, 2009
    This is the one movie I wish writers, directors,producers, actors, everyone would watch to learn how to do a LOVE story. Hepburn and Bogart could not be beat. But Bogie can't be beat. Love it like I said a must see!!!!
  • November 8, 2009
    Good, but not great.
  • October 31, 2009
    Classic Actors and a classic movie. This is about the third or forth time I've seen this film and it's still enjoyable. Reminds me of how John Wayne and Katharine played off each other in Rooster Cogburn.
  • October 27, 2009
    Great "comic adventure".
  • October 26, 2009
    Bogie and Kate come on...

Comments


  • willerror1
    July 27, 2009
    Astonishingly, THE AFRICAN QUEEN is *NOT* available on American DVD. Not legitimately, at least.

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The African Queen Trivia


  • Which film is this the plot of? In Africa during WW1, a gin-swilling riverboat captain is persuaded by a strait-laced missionary to use his boat to attack an enemy warship.  Answer »
  • Complete The Movie Title Starring Katharine Hepburn; The ____ Queen  Answer »
  • Oscar winner for Best Actor of 1951 (all nominated):  Answer »
  • Which was the only movie that Humphrey Bogart won an Oscar for?  Answer »

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