After spending several months in an orbiting lab, three astronauts prepare to return to Earth only to find their de-orbit thrusters won't activate. After initially thinking they might have to abandon them in orbit, NASA decides to launch a daring rescue. Their plans are complicated by a hurricane headed towards the launch site—and a shrinking air supply in the astronauts' capsule.
Practical Effects
Pre-digital spacecraft built with obsessive NASA consultation.
Acting
Peck's controlled panic vs. Hackman's unraveling everyman.
Production
Released four months after actual moon landing — timing is everything.
Director
John Sturges
Trivia, insights & behind the scenes
US
