When Russian rebels gain control of nuclear weapons in the USSR, the United States retaliates by
deploying the USS Alabama, a nuclear submarine commanded by Captain Frank Ramsey (Gene
Hackman). Veteran soldier and Naval legend Ramsey selects Lt. Commander Ron Hunter (Denzel
Washington)--a Harvard graduate who prefers using brains over weapons--as his Executive
Officer. While submerged, the Alabama is attacked by a Russian sub and loses radio contact just
as an order is being transmitted from headquarters. Old Navy dog Ramsey firmly believes that the
interrupted transmission ends with an order to fire their nuclear missiles at the Russian rebels.
Hunter, desperate to avoid starting World War III, is determined to re-establish radio contact and
act only after complete orders are received. Without the second-in-command’s agreement, the
missiles cannot be launched, and soon Ramsey and Hunter are engaged in a tense battle of wills,
forcing the crew to choose sides. Director
Tony Scott keeps the tension running high in this fast-paced military thriller. Hackman scores as
the tradition-bound Ramsey, and Washington is superb as the thoughtful young officer who feels
compelled to take a stand against his superior.
Directed by Tony Scott - Rated R
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