50 Facts About The Movie Crimson Tide

The Inspiration Behind "Crimson Tide"

"Crimson Tide" isn't just any action thriller. It's a film deeply rooted in historical events and real-life tensions. Let's dive into the fascinating origins and inspirations behind this gripping movie.

1. The plot was inspired by a real-life mutiny attempted aboard a submarine during the Cuban Missile Crisis. However, it happened on a Soviet submarine, not an American one.
2. The film is set during a period of political turmoil in Russia, where ultranationalists threaten to launch nuclear missiles at the United States and Japan.

Key Characters and Setting

The characters and setting of "Crimson Tide" are pivotal to its intense narrative. Here's a closer look at the main players and the environment they navigate.

3. The movie focuses on a clash of wills between Capt. Frank Ramsey (Gene Hackman) and Lt. Cmdr. Ron Hunter (Denzel Washington).
4. The USS Alabama, an Ohio-class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, is the primary setting. Its motto, "Audemus Jura Nostra Defendere" ("We Dare Defend Our Rights"), is also Alabama's state motto.
5. Real-life footage of the USS Alabama diving was used, captured by Tony Scott from a helicopter and boats.

Filming Challenges and Cooperation

Making "Crimson Tide" wasn't smooth sailing. The production faced numerous challenges, especially regarding cooperation from naval forces.

6. Director Tony Scott obtained footage of the real USS Alabama departing Pearl Harbor through possibly illegal means, violating navy ship movement regulations.
7. The U.S. Navy found the film's subject objectionable and inaccurate, refusing to assist in its making.
8. The French Navy stepped in, allowing the use of one of their Triomphant Class ballistic missile submarines and the aircraft carrier Foch.

Historical Parallels and Realism

"Crimson Tide" draws heavily from historical events, adding layers of realism to its narrative.

9. The story parallels a real incident during the Cuban Missile Crisis involving the Soviet submarine B-59, where a second-in-command refused to launch nuclear weapons, preventing potential nuclear war.
10. Gene Hackman was the first actor to agree to the role of Capt. Frank Ramsey, beating out Warren Beatty and Al Pacino.
11. Denzel Washington played Lt. Cmdr. Ron Hunter, a role almost taken by Brad Pitt.

Filming Locations and Techniques

The film's authenticity is bolstered by its realistic sets and special effects. Here's how they achieved it.

12. Filming took place in 1994, with sets for the interior of the USS Alabama constructed at Culver Studios.
13. The largest hydraulic gimbal ever constructed was used to simulate the sub’s movement.
14. The scene where the Alabama's bilge bay floods was shot for 14 hours in the chilly waters of the Culver City Municipal Pool.

Soundtrack and Extended Cuts

The film's soundtrack and extended cuts add depth to its storytelling. Let's explore these elements.

15. Hans Zimmer scored the film, winning a Grammy Award for the main theme, which heavily uses synthesizers.
16. An extended cut of the film, incorporating seven minutes of deleted scenes, was released on DVD in 2006.
17. The 2008 Blu-ray release only includes the theatrical version.

Plot Summary and Key Scenes

The plot of "Crimson Tide" is filled with tension and moral dilemmas. Here are some key scenes and plot points.

18. The film begins with characters playing a trivia game, referencing early submarine movies like "Run Silent, Run Deep."
19. Capt. Ramsey is portrayed as a seasoned commander nearing the end of his active duty, known for his tough demeanor.
20. Lt. Cmdr. Hunter, the new second in command, makes a statement about the true enemy being war itself, which haunts him throughout the film.

Conflict and Resolution

The heart of "Crimson Tide" lies in the conflict between its two main characters and the resolution of their differences.

21. Tensions rise when Ramsey orders a missile drill amidst chaos caused by a galley fire, leading to the death of the chief mess officer.
22. The USS Alabama receives an Emergency Action Message ordering missile launch against rebel Russian missile sites, but a second incomplete message causes a dilemma.
23. Ramsey decides to proceed with launching missiles, while Hunter disagrees, believing the partial second message may be a retraction.
24. Hunter orders Ramsey arrested for attempting to circumvent two-man protocol, leading to a mutiny.
25. An armed standoff ensues as Hunter's party storms the command center, removing the captain's missile key.
26. The two men face a tribunal at Naval Station Pearl Harbor, which concludes that both were right and wrong, with Hunter's actions deemed lawfully justified.

Historical Context and Filming Duration

Understanding the historical context and the effort put into filming adds another layer to appreciating "Crimson Tide."

27. As of January 1996, authority to launch nuclear missiles is no longer within the power of a U.S. nuclear submarine captain but rather the President of the United States.
28. Filming took place over 15 weeks, aided by two technical advisers who were former commanding officers of the real USS Alabama.

Cinematography and Directorial Style

Tony Scott's directorial style and the film's cinematography play a crucial role in its storytelling.

29. The film was shot in CinemaScope, providing a wide-screen format that enhanced the underwater sequences and the claustrophobic atmosphere of the submarine.
30. Director Tony Scott handles the emergency scenes with skill, using high-tech gadgets and special effects to create a gripping narrative.

Actor Performances and Supporting Cast

The performances of the main actors and the supporting cast bring depth to the film's narrative.

31. Gene Hackman delivers a masterful performance as Capt. Frank Ramsey, masking deeper, darker thoughts behind a genial facade.
32. Denzel Washington's portrayal of Lt. Cmdr. Ron Hunter is equally impressive, adding depth to the film's narrative.
33. The supporting cast includes notable actors such as George Dzundza (Cob), Viggo Mortensen (Weps), James Gandolfini (Lt. Bobby Daugherty), and Matt Craven (Zimmer).

Realistic Submarine Operations and Legal Controversy

The film's attention to detail regarding submarine operations and the legal controversy surrounding its production add to its intrigue.

34. Despite the U.S. Navy's refusal to cooperate, director Tony Scott captured realistic footage of a submarine in motion.
35. Tony Scott obtained footage of the real USS Alabama departing Pearl Harbor through possibly illegal means, though no charges were ever laid.

Cultural Significance and Legacy

"Crimson Tide" has left a lasting impact on cinema and continues to be a cultural phenomenon.

36. The film's plot is inspired by real-life events but takes creative liberties to enhance the narrative.
37. The film employs cinematic techniques such as using a large hydraulic gimbal to simulate the submarine's movement.
38. Hans Zimmer's score for "Crimson Tide" won a Grammy Award and significantly contributed to the film's tense atmosphere.
39. An extended cut of "Crimson Tide," incorporating seven minutes of deleted scenes, was released on DVD in 2006.
40. The 2008 Blu-ray release of "Crimson Tide" only includes the theatrical version, omitting the extended cut.

Influence on War Movies and Submarine Films

"Crimson Tide" set a new standard for war and submarine films, influencing many that followed.

41. "Crimson Tide" is a rare kind of war movie that not only thrills people while they’re watching it but also invites them to leave the theater discussing the issues.
42. The film includes cultural references to early submarine movies like "Run Silent, Run Deep."
43. Gene Hackman delivers a masterful performance as Capt. Frank Ramsey, maintaining a disinterested monotone of resignation during tense moments.
44. Denzel Washington's portrayal of Lt. Cmdr. Ron Hunter is equally impressive, adding depth to the film's narrative.
45. The supporting cast includes notable actors such as George Dzundza (Cob), Viggo Mortensen (Weps), James Gandolfini (Lt. Bobby Daugherty), and Matt Craven (Zimmer).

Behind-the-Scenes Facts and Technical Advisers

Several behind-the-scenes facts highlight the dedication and creativity of the cast and crew.

46. The scene about the flooding of the Alabama's bilge bay was shot for 14 hours in a chilly pool, showcasing the crew's commitment to realism.
47. The sets for the interior of the USS Alabama were constructed at Culver Studios using a 44-foot square cargo container housing the sets and cast.
48. Two technical advisers who were former commanding officers of the real USS Alabama contributed significantly to the film's accuracy.

Legacy and Impact

"Crimson Tide" has left a lasting legacy in the world of cinema, inspiring new generations of filmmakers.

49. "Crimson Tide" has become a cultural phenomenon, not just as an action thriller but also as a thought-provoking film about leadership and moral dilemmas.
50. The film's influence can be seen in subsequent submarine films, setting a new standard for combining action with philosophical discussions and historical accuracy.

The Lasting Impact of Crimson Tide

"Crimson Tide" isn't just another action thriller; it's a film that dives deep into the complexities of leadership, moral dilemmas, and the high-stakes world of nuclear warfare. With standout performances from Gene Hackman and Denzel Washington, the movie keeps viewers on the edge of their seats while also making them think. The film's attention to detail, from realistic submarine operations to a gripping Hans Zimmer score, sets it apart. Despite challenges like the U.S. Navy's refusal to cooperate, the production team pulled off a masterpiece that continues to influence submarine films today. Whether you're a fan of action, drama, or thought-provoking narratives, "Crimson Tide" offers something for everyone. Its legacy endures, making it a must-watch for anyone interested in the genre.