Gene Hackman and Denzel Washington’s Forgotten War Movie: Why ‘Crimson Tide’ Deserves a Second Look!

Few war action thrillers are as grandly executed and masterfully crafted as Crimson Tide, a 1995 blockbuster helmed by the legendary Tony Scott. While it may not always appear in the typical lists of “classic” war films, Crimson Tide stands as a true cinematic gem, thanks to the gripping performances of its two leads, Gene Hackman and Denzel Washington. This film, often overshadowed by other military dramas, is a forgotten “masterclass” in acting, and one that is well worth rediscovering.

The Story: Tension Below the Surface

Set amidst political turmoil in Russia, Crimson Tide centers on a high-stakes standoff aboard the U.S. nuclear submarine USS Alabama. The tension comes from the growing threat of nuclear war, as Russian ultra-nationalist rebel Vladimir Radchenko threatens to launch a missile strike. Caught in the middle of this crisis are the commanding officers of the submarine: the battle-hardened and seasoned Captain Frank Ramsey, portrayed by Gene Hackman, and his more calculated, by-the-book executive officer, Lieutenant Commander Ron Hunter, brought to life by Denzel Washington.

The movie primarily revolves around a conflict of wills between these two men, whose contrasting leadership styles, military ideologies, and personalities clash as they are forced to make decisions that could determine the fate of the world. What unfolds is a tense, edge-of-your-seat thriller, played out mostly in the claustrophobic confines of the submarine, with the threat of nuclear destruction constantly looming.

A Battle of Wills: Hackman and Washington’s Unforgettable Performances

The chemistry between Hackman and Washington is the heart and soul of Crimson Tide. Hackman’s portrayal of Captain Ramsey is a career-defining performance. His portrayal of an old-school, no-nonsense leader—one who believes that authority should never be questioned—adds a layer of intensity to every scene. On the other hand, Denzel Washington’s portrayal of Lieutenant Commander Hunter is equally compelling. His performance captures the tension of a man who respects authority but is not afraid to stand up for what he believes is right, even when it could lead to devastating consequences.

Their on-screen battles—verbal, ideological, and sometimes physical—are the spine of the movie. A critic once said that Crimson Tide is a “masterclass of acting between Gene and Denzel,” and that’s hard to argue. Their exchanges are so well-crafted and charged with emotion that they elevate the stakes of the film beyond the action sequences and into the realm of deep human conflict.

The Direction: Tony Scott’s Patience in the Chaos

Directed by Tony Scott, known for his fast-paced and quick-cut style, Crimson Tide is a surprising departure from his usual frenetic energy. Scott allows his actors to breathe and develop their characters over the course of the film, using longer takes and maintaining a sense of tension within the confined space of the submarine. A reviewer aptly pointed out, “Tony Scott, who usually does quick cuts, is very patient here with leaving the camera rolling on his actors.” This subtle shift in style allows the viewer to truly experience the claustrophobia and mounting pressure of the situation, enhancing the overall impact of the performances.

Scott’s ability to make the audience feel trapped with the characters—both physically and emotionally—adds a layer of realism and immersion to the film. The stakes feel personal, and every decision made by Hackman’s and Washington’s characters is laden with consequence. It’s a masterstroke of direction, creating a tense atmosphere where time seems to slow down.

The Film’s Success: Critical and Box Office Impact

Crimson Tide was not only a critical success but also a hit at the box office. With a worldwide gross of $157.3 million, the film more than justified its hefty budget. The film also garnered three Academy Award nominations, including Best Film Editing, Best Sound, and Best Sound Effects Editing. Its 89% rating on Rotten Tomatoes attests to the widespread praise it received for its gripping narrative and top-tier performances.

One critic lauded the film for its ability to thrill viewers while also engaging them in deeper discussions, stating, “This is the rare kind of war movie that not only thrills people while they’re watching it, but invites them to leave the theater actually discussing the issues.” The film struck a balance between high-octane action and profound moral dilemmas, making it a standout entry in the war thriller genre.

A War Movie Like No Other

While Crimson Tide might not be the first film that comes to mind when discussing great war movies, its performances, direction, and compelling story make it one of the most intense and memorable films in the genre. The acting, particularly the showdown between Hackman and Washington, elevates the material to a level that few other films in this category can match.

As one viewer put it, “Crimson Tide is a riveting, claustrophobic, action-packed adventure of a film. The brilliant direction putting the viewer inside the submarine along with all the characters as everything plays out in real time is fantastic writing and directing.” This encapsulates the essence of Crimson Tide: it’s not just about the action; it’s about the moral dilemmas, the human elements, and the decision-making that can alter the course of history.

Final Thoughts

Crimson Tide remains a powerful and often underrated entry in the war thriller genre. The film’s high-stakes tension, emotional depth, and unforgettable performances by Gene Hackman and Denzel Washington make it a classic that deserves more recognition. It’s a perfect example of how a war film can be both entertaining and thought-provoking, providing a deep dive into human conflict and leadership under pressure. If you haven’t seen it yet, Crimson Tide is a must-watch—one that will leave you thinking long after the credits roll.