macliggett1

If you didn't know that it was a Sci-Fi movie, you would almost think it was a Film Noir murder mystery, for the first 25 minutes or so. The cast is stellar with numerous character actors that made a mane for themselves over long acting careers Fess Parker, Leonard Nemoy, Dub Taylor, James Arness, James Whitmore, Edmond Gwenn (how can you beat Santa Claus?) and about a gazillion other "that guys". The story, though implausible, is presented in such a way that the viewer is easily able to suspend disbelief and go right along with it. The special effects are first rate, for the day, and even now, hold up very well. I really love this movie and can watch it over and over. Watch it, it's time well spent.

I too, saw this movie when it first aired on ABC television as their Movie of the Week. The cast is very strong with some outstanding character actors taking what could have been a very hoaky movie and execute the story with believability. Mako and Darrin McGavin have an interesting relationship and interact well as they try to kill each other. Neither care much for their governments but, fight to win in spite of that. This movie has been highly under rated. I too, would like to see this movie get released, either back out on to syndication or DVD. A good Cold War movie. It's fun to see movies where actors are just starting out, Sam Elliot is the case in point here. He plays the Army's choice (and the ace up the sleeve) for the Champion. He is the by the book professional soldier who follows orders against McGavin as the unorthodox mercenary who is preferred by the State Department. Brodrick Crawford is the General who would rather not play this game and James Whitmore is the political suit who has to make the whole game work.