The Cassandra Crossing (1976)

29% of critics liked it
(7 reviews)
51% of users liked it
(2,517 ratings)

This bizarre entry into the disaster film genre concerns a group of hapless passengers aboard a transcontinental luxury train who are infected with a viral plague by a group of terrorists. Burt Lancaster plays military man Mackenzie, who wants to send the train across a rickety bridge so all the… More This bizarre entry into the disaster film genre concerns a group of hapless passengers aboard a transcontinental luxury train who are infected with a viral plague by a group of terrorists. Burt Lancaster plays military man Mackenzie, who wants to send the train across a rickety bridge so all the passengers will die, with Mackenzie reasoning the tragedy will give the terrorist movement a bad name. Among the passengers on the train trying to build up antibodies are Jennifer Rispoli Chamberlain (Sophia Loren); Nicole (Ava Gardner), who is embroiled in an affair with a younger man named Robby Navarro (Martin Sheen); and Dr. Jonathan Chamberlain (Richard Harris), a physician who wants to save the passengers but ends up duking it out with the terrorists. ~ Paul Brenner, Rovi

Rating, Runtime: R, 2 hr. 6 min.
Directed By: George P. Cosmatos
Genres: Drama, Action & Adventure, Art House & International, Mystery & Suspense

In Theaters: Feb 9, 1977 Wide
On DVD: Oct 5, 1999
Studio: AVCO Embassy Pictures

Critic Reviews

Dennis Schwartz, Ozus' World Movie Reviews
Your usual over-the-top blockbuster disaster of a formulaic disaster movie.
Scott Weinberg, eFilmCritic.com
High-camp disaster chesnut full of overripe acting, runaway trains, and a killer virus!

Critic ratings and reviews powered by RottenTomatoes.com

Fresh (60% or more critics rated the movie positively)

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Featured Audience Ratings

Anthony L

One of my more favourite disaster films of the 70's as there is so much more going on than just a runaway train. The train crash at the end is a bit harsh though.
Sarah G

Does pass the time but cant really believe I watched this this afternoon. In the end it all seemed a bit pointless... More to follow..
Anthony V

Good cast with some thrilling moments make some fun viewing.