The Cruel Sea
1953, English. Directed by Charles Frend.
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.
- Runtime
- 2h 6m
- Post-credits
- None listed
- Language
- English
- Rated
- NR
Start now and it ends at ….
Popcorn Flick
Fun if you don’t overthink it.
6.9/10 from 85 TMDB viewer ratings.
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Where to watch The Cruel Sea
The Cruel Sea is streaming on BFI Player in India.
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Fandango At HomeAvailability in India as of 12 November 2026. Streaming data by JustWatch.
Cast & crew
Details
- Released
- 24 February 1953
- Country
- United Kingdom
- Written by
- Eric Ambler
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News & fan talk
What The Cruel Sea is based on
The Cruel Sea is based on The Cruel Sea (1951) by Nicholas Monsarrat.
1951
The Cruel Sea
By Nicholas Monsarrat
Source details from Wikidata and TMDB.
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The Cruel Sea: quick answers
Is The Cruel Sea worth watching?
Our verdict is Popcorn Flick: Fun if you don’t overthink it. It scores 6.9/10 from 85 TMDB viewer ratings.
How long is The Cruel Sea?
The Cruel Sea runs 126 minutes (2h 6m).
Does The Cruel Sea have a post-credits scene?
None is listed for The Cruel Sea. Viewers tag these on TMDB, so a brand-new film may not be tagged yet.
The Cruel Sea parents guide: is it suitable for kids?
The Cruel Sea is rated NR in India. Check the rating guidance before watching with young children.
Which OTT platform is The Cruel Sea on?
The Cruel Sea is streaming on BFI Player in India. (Checked 12 November 2026.)
What movies are like The Cruel Sea?
If you liked The Cruel Sea, try The Battle of the River Plate, Britannic, The Last Rifleman.
Who directed The Cruel Sea?
The Cruel Sea (1953) was directed by Charles Frend and stars Jack Hawkins, Donald Sinden, Denholm Elliott.
What is The Cruel Sea based on?
The Cruel Sea is based on The Cruel Sea (1951) by Nicholas Monsarrat.