Question 1

What real-life naval battle inspired the film's conflict?

Accepted Answer

The film was inspired by the real-life battle where the destroyer USS Borie rammed and sank U-boat U-405, though both vessels were ultimately lost.

Question 2

Why was this film significant for actor Curd Jürgens?

Accepted Answer

Jürgens said it was his first post-war film where a German officer wasn't portrayed as a freak, and reviews noted it avoided black-and-white morality.

Question 3

What unusual cameo appears in the wardroom scene?

Accepted Answer

Darryl F. Zanuck, head of 20th Century-Fox Pictures, appears as a background crew member with shaved mustache in the wardroom conference scene.

Question 4

Which real ship played the USS Haynes in the film?

Accepted Answer

The USS Haynes was actually the destroyer escort USS Whitehurst, which was later sunk as a torpedo target in 1971.

Question 5

What technical expertise helped with the submarine scenes?

Accepted Answer

Former German U-boat submariner Albert Beck served as a technical consultant, advising on the submarine scenes.

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