Directed by:
Tony ScottScreenplay:
Michael SchifferCinematography:
Dariusz WolskiComposer:
Hans ZimmerCast:
Denzel Washington, Gene Hackman, Matt Craven, George Dzundza, Viggo Mortensen, James Gandolfini, Jaime Gomez, Danny Nucci, Lillo Brancato, Ricky Schroder (more)VOD (3)
Plots(1)
In the midst of a global crisis, the USS Alabama receives an unconfirmed order to launch its nuclear missiles - signaling the start of World War III. The tension quickly rises as the sub's respected commander (Gene Hackman) and his brilliant executive officer (Denzel Washington) clash over the validity of their orders, battling each other for control of the sub. (Showtime)
(more)Reviews (8)
A wonderfully played game of battle subs under the baton of Tony Scott with a soundtrack by Zimmer which is legendary today. Fresh-faced Washington as the man at the moral helm fights over command with Hackman’s old sea dog. Themes of justice and arguments against mindless obeying of orders and violence are basic, but they work. The atmosphere of impending nuclear holocaust is almost tangible. But better submarine thrillers exist. P.S.: I bet the conversation about the Silver Surfer is Tarantino’s contribution to the script.
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Crimson Tide is a Hollywood attempt at cinematic psychology between characters that won’t insult your intelligence and you will be delighted by the spectacular visuals (Tony Scott’s typical camera filters) and Hans Zimmer’s brilliant music, as well as by the excellent actors.
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From the first minutes of the film it is apparent that it was directed by Tony Scott. Need I say more?
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When I saw Crimson Tide in the movie theater in the mid-90s, it made a very good impression on me, and today's four stars are based on that. However, I'm not sure if I would be as satisfied upon rewatching it, as I've seen several submarine films since then, and in comparison, this one is only slightly above average. The Hunt for Red October, I fear, is better by more than just one class. This well-made thriller with a highly improbable plot relies on the acting skills of Denzel Washington and especially Gene Hackman. Overall impression: 70%.
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A submarine average, I’d say. If it wasn't for the Denzel Washington – Gene Hackman duo, it would have probably turned out even worse. Tony Scott can create a gripping situation that keeps the viewer glued to the screen, but unfortunately, the script is quite flat and the switching of commanders is quite annoying. The pace is dull throughout and only towards the end does it pick up a bit, but that is not enough for an above-average result. Strong America and two brilliant actors.
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Someone wanted to write a story “like Tom Clancy", but he wasn’t able to do it. Crimson Tide has a barren, unsurprising script, but it's well filmed and, as always, the perfect Gene Hackman plays in it, which makes it all worth seeing. The character of Denzel Washington did not impress me in any way, and I could write the same about the music of Hans Zimmer, because (this time) it is nothing special. A slightly above-average submarine film - about on the level of U-571.
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Watching Hackman and Washington's rivalry is actually far more interesting than the actual mission of the entire crew. In fact, Crimson Tide is very predictable in terms of the script, and if it weren't for the excellent performances of the central duo, it would have dropped into the mists of mediocrity. On the other hand, the knowledge that the fate of the planet can often be decided by who can piss farthest is slightly disturbing. But all the psychological and geopolitical aspects aside, this is through and through a sure-fire directorial one-off from Tony Scott that doesn't really have much to offer except for the aforementioned performances.
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In the 1990s, was having two ace actors enough to make up for a fairly banal script when arguably the most important work of Zimmer's career was winning you over as a bonus? You bet it was.
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