A classic piece of cinematic tension is set to grip television audiences tonight, as the acclaimed Cold War thriller Crimson Tide receives a broadcast on ITV4. The film, hailed by critics as 'riveting' and packed with 'thrilling' moments, airs at 9.05pm on Sunday, December 28.
While the genre of war films offers many options, this 1995 action masterpiece, directed by the late Tony Scott, often stands out as an underrated gem. It combines blockbuster suspense with intelligent drama, set within the claustrophobic confines of a nuclear submarine.
A Stellar Cast and a High-Stakes Plot
The film's power is driven by two acting legends in peak form. Denzel Washington and Gene Hackman lead the cast, delivering electrifying performances as naval officers locked in a brutal battle of wills. They are supported by a remarkable ensemble including Viggo Mortensen, James Gandolfini, and Matt Craven.
The plot, loosely based on real events during the 1962 Cuban Missile Crisis, specifically aboard the Soviet submarine B-59, follows the crew of a U.S. ballistic missile sub. A crisis unfolds, creating a devastating conflict between the commanding officer and his executive officer over the launch protocol for nuclear weapons.
Behind the Scenes: Awards, Secrets, and a Sequel
Upon its release, Crimson Tide was both a commercial and critical success. Produced on a $53 million budget, it earned a formidable $157.4 million worldwide. The film's technical prowess was recognised with three Academy Award nominations for Film Editing, Sound, and Sound Editing.
Its iconic score was composed by Hans Zimmer, who won a Grammy for the main theme. Intriguingly, the film benefited from uncredited script contributions by Quentin Tarantino, fresh from writing Scott's True Romance. Reports of on-set clashes between Washington and Tarantino over dialogue were later resolved.
In a significant update for fans, producer Jerry Bruckheimer revealed in a 2025 interview that a sequel is in development, with hopes that Washington will reprise his role as Lieutenant Commander Hunter.
Critical Acclaim and Viewer Praise
The film holds an impressive 89% critics score on Rotten Tomatoes. Reviewers have consistently praised its intelligent pacing and palpable tension. One noted it as "a whale of a movie, an intense and a heartstopping adventure played out against the unnerving threat of nuclear annihilation."
Another highlighted its rare depth: "Crimson Tide has everything you could want from an action thriller and a few other things you usually can't hope to expect." Audiences echo this sentiment, with viewers commending the "stellar performances" and the "perfectly-paced high stakes drama with a brain."
For those seeking a sophisticated, pulse-pounding thriller, Crimson Tide offers a must-watch experience tonight on ITV4.
