8 Most Iconic Kirk Douglas Roles

4. Ned Landy - 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea (1954)

Based upon Jules Verne’s classic science fiction novel, Douglas stars opposite James Mason, who plays Captain Nemo, as Ned Handy, a salty but silly sailor who is thrown overboard and taken in by Nemo.

Highlighting Douglas’ ability as a versatile actor, 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea marks a departure from Douglas’ usual choice of role, opting to play a lighter and more comedic character. Whilst the real dramatic meat of the film is centered on the dynamic between the domineering Captain Nemo and the philosophical Professor Aronnax (Paul Lukas), Douglas role as the comic relief is a vital aspect of the films overall tone as a fun-filled adventure film, and his character proved very popular with audiences.

At the time of production, this was the most expensive movie of all time, the budget running up to $9 million by some reports, a huge sum in the 1950s, but it paid off as it was an enormous box office success, solidifying Douglas has a big box office draw. With numerous set pieces which have become ingrained into popular culture, in particular the battle with the giant squid, the film is now regarded as a classic of the adventure genre.