Danger runs deep.|May. 12, 1995|USA|116 Min.|R
Genre: Action;Drama;Thriller;War
Description: Crimson Tide (1995) is a gripping action-thriller set in a tense geopolitical climate. In post-Soviet Russia, civil war breaks out due to the ongoing conflict in Chechnya. Vladimir Radchenko, a Russian ultra-nationalist rebel, gains control of a nuclear missile facility and threatens nuclear war if challenged.
The USS Alabama, a U.S. Navy ballistic missile submarine, is deployed with orders to launch a pre-emptive nuclear strike if Radchenko prepares his missiles. Captain Frank Ramsey, a seasoned veteran, is in command. He selects Lieutenant Commander Ron Hunter, a highly educated but inexperienced officer, as his new executive officer.
Clashes emerge between Ramsey’s decisive leadership and Hunter’s cautious, analytical approach. These tensions worsen when Ramsey orders a missile drill during a galley fire that tragically kills the chief mess officer. Hunter assists in managing the crisis but privately questions Ramsey’s judgment, leading to a reprimand for fostering dissent.
As the situation escalates, the Alabama receives an Emergency Action Message ordering a missile launch against the Russian base. While preparing to execute the command, a second, incomplete message is intercepted before a rebel Russian submarine attacks, damaging the Alabama’s radio.
Ramsey insists on proceeding with the launch based on the last confirmed order. Hunter, however, refuses to comply, believing the incomplete message might countermand the instruction. When Hunter stands firm, Ramsey attempts to relieve him of duty. Hunter responds by arresting Ramsey for violating the two-man protocol. The crew is divided, but the Chief of the Boat supports Hunter, placing him in command while confining Ramsey to his quarters.
The film explores themes of leadership, decision-making, and the ethical dilemmas of war.
Cast director: Tony Scott
Cast actor: Denzel Washington, Gene Hackman, Matt Craven, George Dzundza, Viggo Mortensen, James Gandolfini, Rocky Carroll, Jaime Gomez, Michael Milhoan, Scott Burkholder
Original name: Crimson Tide