White Squall (1996)
Ridley Scott's gripping maritime drama about young sailors confronting nature's fury and their own limits on the open sea.
White Squall - Movie Information
- Original Title: White Squall
- Release Year: 1996
- Directed by: Ridley Scott
- Type: Movie
- Genres: Drama, Adventure
- Age Rating (US): PG-13
- Runtime: 2h 9m
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Release Date (Theatrical): February 2, 1996 (Netherlands - 12), February 2, 1996 (United States - PG-13), July 15, 1996 (Germany - 12), July 16, 1996 (France - 16), April 18, 1996 (Australia - M), August 15, 1996 (South Korea - 15)
- Alternative Titles: L'Albatross - Oltre la tempesta (IT), Corazón de héroes (AR), 无形飑 (CN), Marea blanca (MX), Sztorm (PL), 화이트 스콜 (KR)
- Production Companies: Largo Entertainment, Scott Free Productions, Hollywood Pictures
- Production Countries: United Kingdom, United States of America
White Squall - Plot
In 1960, a hardy group of prep school students boards an old-fashioned sailing ship. With Capt. Christopher Sheldon at the helm, the oceangoing voyage is intended to teach the boys fortitude and discipline. But the youthful crew are about to get some unexpected instruction in survival when they get caught in the clutches of a white squall storm.
White Squall - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see the storm-tossed adventure unfold:
The strongest will in nature is the will to survive.
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White Squall - Cast & Crew
Director(s)
- Ridley Scott
Main Cast
- Jeff Bridges
- Caroline Goodall
- John Savage
- Scott Wolf
- Jeremy Sisto
- Ryan Phillippe
- David Lascher
- Eric Michael Cole
- Jason Marsden
- David Selby
Writers
- Todd Robinson
Producers
- Mimi Polk Gitlin
- Rocky Lang
White Squall - FAQs
Is White Squall based on a true story?
Yes, White Squall is based on a true story. In 1961, the brigantine Albatross sank during a sudden squall in the Gulf of Mexico, killing several crew members including students. Skipper Christopher Sheldon survived and was later acquitted of negligence charges following a maritime inquiry.
What happened to the real Albatross ship?
The real Albatross, a 92-foot brigantine used as a floating school, capsized on May 2, 1961, during a sudden squall in the Gulf of Mexico. Six people died, including four students. The tragedy inspired the film and prompted significant debate about the safety of ocean-going educational voyages.
Who are the main actors in White Squall?
White Squall stars Jeff Bridges as Captain Christopher Sheldon, alongside Caroline Goodall, John Savage, Scott Wolf, Jeremy Sisto, Ryan Phillippe, David Lascher, Eric Michael Cole, Jason Marsden, and David Selby. The film features an ensemble of young actors in early career roles.
Where can I watch White Squall online?
White Squall is available to buy or rent on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. Check your preferred platform for current pricing and regional availability.
What is White Squall about?
White Squall follows a group of prep school boys in 1960 who embark on an ocean voyage aboard a tall ship under the strict command of Captain Sheldon. What begins as a journey of discipline and self-discovery turns into a harrowing fight for survival when a ferocious white squall strikes without warning.
Did White Squall win any awards?
White Squall did not achieve major awards recognition upon its 1996 release. The film underperformed commercially, earning roughly $10 million against a $38 million budget. However, it has since gained appreciation as an underrated Ridley Scott drama with strong performances and impressive maritime cinematography.
How long is White Squall?
White Squall has a runtime of 2 hours and 9 minutes (129 minutes). The film is rated PG-13 and was released on February 2, 1996, in the United States.
Who directed White Squall and who wrote it?
White Squall was directed by Ridley Scott, the acclaimed filmmaker behind Alien, Gladiator, and Black Hawk Down. The screenplay was written by Todd Robinson, who based the script on the real-life account of the 1961 Albatross sinking and Chuck Gieg's memoir about the voyage.
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