Moby Richard

About This Movie

Moby Richard is one of those films that stays with you, a fascinating blend of documentary and psychological exploration. Joe Gibbons, as Professor Herville, delivers a compelling analysis of Moby Dick, but it’s not just about the text; it’s about how we interpret it. The film weaves in clips from the 1956 adaptation with Gregory Peck, which adds this disorienting layer of cinematic history. The pacing is deliberate, giving you space to ponder the Oedipal themes and the larger existential questions that Melville posed. The atmosphere is a bit surreal, and Gibbons's performance carries this weight of passion and obsession that really draws you in, making for a unique viewing experience.

This film is somewhat of an oddity in the realm of adaptations and literary analysis, which adds to its charm. There are limited home media releases, making it a bit of a rare find among collectors. Interest seems to ebb and flow, often tied to new discussions around Melville's work. If you're into unconventional takes on classic literature, this might pique your interest.