Today’s quick review: The Poseidon Adventure. When an earthquake triggers a wave that capsizes the SS Poseidon, the passengers are left trapped on an upside-down ship that’s gradually sinking. Reverend Scott (Gene Hackman), an unconventional preacher, rallies a small group of survivors and makes for the engine room, where he’s confident that they will find their only possible means of escape.
The Poseidon Adventure is a disaster thriller set on a cruise ship that was flipped over by bad management and a freak wave. Eschewing the officers’ recommendations to stay in the main ballroom and wait for help, Mike Rogo (Ernest Borgnine), his wife Linda (Stella Stevens), and half a dozen others throw in their lot with Reverend Scott. The Poseidon Adventure combines a memorable premise with solid delivery and plenty of raw humanity.
Although The Poseidon Adventure has plenty of action, it lets its characters do the heavy lifting. Their feats of exertion and heroism are separated by moments of reflection and reassurance, arguments about whether to put their faith in Scott or Rogo, and uncertain choices with no right answer. These interludes give the audience a chance to connect with the characters, giving the movie a dignity that makes its events all the weightier.
Still, The Poseidon Adventure’s style will not be for everyone. Reverend Scott has a forceful personality. While he takes charge of the survivors and generally makes good decisions, his ego is apparent, and he has to strongarm support from the likes of Rogo. The Poseidon Adventure also has slower pacing and less elaborate effects than its modern brethren, meaning that it relies more on its characters and moral conflicts.
The Poseidon Adventure is a strong pick for anyone willing to give it a chance. The movie does a good job of setting up the scenario gradually, so that when the action comes, it has meaning. At the same time, its insight into human relationships and the best and worst of humanity gives it a depth that other disaster movies have a hard time matching. Skip it if you are looking for an upbeat movie or something with modern special effects.
For a flashier remake with less character grounding, check out Poseidon. For a less action-oriented classic that dives even deeper into the human psyche during a crisis, try The Treasure of the Sierra Madre or The Bridge on the River Kwai.
[7.1 out of 10 on IMDB](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0069113/). I give it a 7.0 for solid character work and a gripping plot.