Based on the Edward L. Beach best-selling book of the same title, the score was submitted as material for the film version of the book. Directed by Robert Wise and starring Clark Gable and Burt Lancaster, the film was a big success and went on to become a classic World War II submarine picture. Unfortunately the Gordon score submission was not chosen despite Beach's support, and there was no feedback as to why. The music was turned into a piano suite and is extant.