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Disaster at Sea (1956)

1956 · Short film · 26 min

  • Documentary

Synopsis

This 1964 black and white documentary film “Survival! Andrea Doria” details the sinking of the SS Andrea Doria on July 25, 1956. It was produced by Official Films, Inc; Sherman Grinberg Productions, Inc. Survivors provide their recollections to narrator James Whitmore (:20- 1:00 ). June, 1951, the Italian ship is shown from multiple angles. The ship is blessed by Cardinal Archbishop Giuseppe Siri, christened, and launched ( 1:35 - 2:43 ). The first-class lounge has murals and a bonze statue of 16th century Admiral Andrea Doria ( 2:45 - 3:00 ). The ship is tested by authorities. The control room has many instruments ( 3:07 - 3:50 ). The wake is shown ( 3:52 - 4:04 ). Andrea Doria approaches New York Harbor on her maiden crossing. Fire boats squirt water into the air as a welcome. The Captain is interviewed ( 4:15 - 4:46 ). July 17, 1956. Passengers ballroom dance and drink ( 4:53 - 5:18 ). Two women approach the chapel. Others play shuffleboard, tennis, sunbathe, and swim ( 5:23 - 5:44 ). An indoor bar serves patrons. Chefs prepare elaborate meals. Wine is poured into a glass. Entertainment includes a costume dance ( 5:46 - 6:14 ). Activities, dining, dancing, and a band are shown ( 6:15 - 6:35 ). July 25, 1956, passengers relax and take photos on their way back to New York ( 6:36 - 6:55 ). The SS Ile de France and Stockholm pass with the Statue of Liberty shown behind ( 6:56 - 7:25 ). The Andrea Doria sounds its horn in dense fog. Inside, passengers eat from a buffet line.…

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Details

Running time
26 minutes
Collection
Ephemeral Films

Subjects on the Internet Archive