Massive Retaliation (1984)
A Cold War survival drama about three families racing to a secret retreat as the specter of World War III closes in around them.
Massive Retaliation - Movie Information
- Original Title: Massive Retaliation
- Release Year: 1984
- Directed by: Thomas A. Cohen
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama, War
- Age Rating (US): R
- Runtime: 1h 30m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): September 1, 1984 (United States - R)
- Production Countries: United States of America
Massive Retaliation - Plot
Three families that are best friends head to their secret retreat when WW3 seems to be nearing. The adults arrive at the retreat and must endure the stress to come while the children are separated from the adults and have their own troubles along the way.
Massive Retaliation - Trailer
See the tension unfold in the official trailer for this 1984 Cold War thriller:
Who Will Live? What Will They Do To Survive?
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Massive Retaliation - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Thomas A. Cohen
Main Cast
- Tom Bower
- Karlene Crockett
- Peter Donat
- Marilyn Hassett
- Susan O'Connell
- Michael Pritchard
- Jason Gedrick
- Bobcat Goldthwait
- Mimi Fariña
- Johnny Weissmuller Jr.
Writers
- Larry Wittnebert
- Richard Beban
Producers
- Thomas A. Cohen
Massive Retaliation - FAQs
What is Massive Retaliation about?
Massive Retaliation follows three close-knit families who escape to a secret retreat as World War III appears imminent. Once there, the adults struggle to cope with the mounting dread of nuclear conflict while the children, separated from their parents, face their own harrowing challenges in the chaos outside.
Is Massive Retaliation based on a true story?
No, Massive Retaliation is not based on a true story. It's an original dramatic thriller rooted in the very real anxieties of the Cold War era. The film taps into the widespread nuclear fear of the early 1980s, when the threat of World War III felt genuinely close for many Americans.
Where can you stream Massive Retaliation?
You can watch Massive Retaliation for free on The Roku Channel, Tubi TV, Plex, Plex Channel, and Fawesome. If you prefer to own or rent it, Amazon Video has you covered. Plenty of options whether you want to pay or stream at no cost.
Does Massive Retaliation have a happy ending?
Massive Retaliation leans into the bleak, tension-soaked tone typical of Cold War survival dramas rather than offering a tidy resolution. The film is more interested in exploring how ordinary people fracture under existential pressure than in delivering reassuring closure, leaving viewers with a sobering, unsettling impression.
Who are the main actors in Massive Retaliation?
The cast features Tom Bower and Marilyn Hassett as the Fredericks couple, Peter Donat and Karlene Crockett as the Briscoes, and Susan O'Connell and Michael Pritchard as the Tollivers. Jason Gedrick and a very early Bobcat Goldthwait also appear, making this a notable ensemble for a low-budget 1984 production.
What is the age rating for Massive Retaliation?
Massive Retaliation is rated R. The rating reflects the film's intense dramatic content and the psychological weight of its nuclear war scenario, making it more suitable for adult viewers who can appreciate its grim, survival-focused tone rather than younger audiences looking for lighter fare.
Is Massive Retaliation worth watching for Cold War fans?
For fans of Cold War-era survival dramas, Massive Retaliation offers a genuinely interesting time capsule. Made in 1984 at the height of nuclear anxiety, it captures the era's dread with an intimate, character-driven approach. Its ensemble cast and early appearances by Jason Gedrick and Bobcat Goldthwait add extra curiosity value.
Who directed Massive Retaliation and who wrote it?
Thomas A. Cohen directed Massive Retaliation and also served as its producer. The screenplay was written by Larry Wittnebert and Richard Beban. The film's cinematography was handled by Richard Lerner, with music composed by Harn Soper and Paul Potyen rounding out the core creative team.
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