The African Queen

Adapted from the novel by C.S. Forester, The African Queen (1951) directed by John Huston stars Humphrey Bogart in his Academy Award-winning portrayal of Charlie Allnut, the slovenly, gin-swilling captain of a tramp steamer called the African Queen, which ships supplies to small East African villages during World War I. Katharine Hepburn plays Rose Sayer, the maiden-lady sister of a prim British missionary (Robert Morley). When invading Germans kill the missionary and level the village, Allnut offers to take Rose back to civilization. She can't tolerate his drinking or bad manners; he isn't crazy about her imperious, judgmental attitude. However, it does not take long before their passionate dislike turns to love. Together the disparate duo work to ensure their survival on the treacherous waters and devise an ingenious way to destroy a German gunboat. Along with masterful direction from John Huston, the wonderful script makes this a rare treat indeed. Winner of Best Actor Oscar, nominated for 3 further Oscars and 2 BAFTA Awards.