The Fifth Missile

I saw this film when it first ran. I was amazed at the quality of the script and the acting especially since this was a "made for TV" movie. Such films suffer generally from a low budget and more rigid timetable for production.

Robert Conrad played a character in this film that was a complete departure from his previous "macho" personas. In this film he is the protagonist, but a man with many weaknesses. His weakness becomes a strength when the medication he is taking keeps him from becoming paranoid and psychotic like those around him who are overcome with a mind altering intoxication caused by a chemical in paint used on the ship. As the men around him begin planning to use a nuclear device, he, as the only sane one, has to stop them.

This film is gripping and very well directed. It could have been a very successful Indy film. I join all others when I say I wish it were on DVD.