Watch The Andromeda Strain

The Andromeda Strain is a 1971 science fiction thriller directed by Robert Wise, based on the novel of the same name by Michael Crichton. The movie stars James Olson, Arthur Hill, and David Wayne. The film begins with a satellite crashing onto Earth in a small town in New Mexico, killing most of the town's inhabitants. A team of scientists is quickly assembled to investigate the cause of the crash and the strange illness that has afflicted the survivor, an elderly man and an infant, but not the town drunk who is found dead.

The scientists, who are part of a top-secret government program, are tasked with identifying the unknown organism that has been brought to Earth by the satellite. They soon discover that the organism, dubbed the Andromeda Strain, reproduces quickly, and has the ability to mutate and evolve at an extremely fast rate, making it extremely dangerous.

As the team tries to identify the organism and find a way to contain it, they realize that time is running out. The race is on to find a way to stop the Andromeda Strain from spreading and causing a global pandemic.

One of the most notable aspects of The Andromeda Strain is its scientific accuracy. The movie features a lot of technical jargon and scientific procedures, which are explained in great detail. The movie's attention to detail and realism make it a fascinating watch for science fiction fans and science enthusiasts alike.

Another notable aspect of the film is its use of split-screen visuals. The movie often shows multiple perspectives at once, using split screens to show both the scientists' reactions and the action taking place on the monitor. This technique adds to the tension and suspense of the film.

The acting in the movie is strong, with James Olson, Arthur Hill, and David Wayne all giving solid performances as the scientists tasked with saving humanity. The supporting cast is also notable, with many distinguished character actors appearing in small roles.

One of the most interesting aspects of The Andromeda Strain is its portrayal of government bureaucracy and secrecy. The movie shows how the scientists are hindered by their own government, which at times seems more interested in covering up the incident than finding a cure for the illness. The film's commentary on government secrecy and the dangers of unchecked corporate power remains relevant today.

Despite being made in 1971, The Andromeda Strain remains an engaging and suspenseful film today. The movie's emphasis on science and realism make it stand out from other science fiction thrillers of the era. The film is a fascinating look at the potential dangers of scientific advancement and the importance of cooperation and communication in the face of a crisis.

Overall, The Andromeda Strain is a gripping and suspenseful film that remains relevant today. Its attention to scientific accuracy, strong performances, and commentary on government bureaucracy make it a must-see for science fiction fans and anyone interested in the dangers of scientific advancement.

The Andromeda Strain is a 1971 science fiction movie with a runtime of 2 hours and 10 minutes. It has received moderate reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2 and a MetaScore of 60.