Avalanche is a 1978 American disaster film directed by Corey Allen and starring Rock Hudson, Mia Farrow, Robert Forster, Rick Moses, and Jeanette Nolan.
The film tells the story of David Shelby (Rock Hudson), a wealthy developer who has built a new ski resort in the Rocky Mountains. He invites his ex-wife, Caroline Brace (Mia Farrow), to come to the resort for the grand opening, which also kicks off a ski tournament and a figure skating competition. Among the many guests is David's feisty mother, Florence (Jeanette Nolan), Bruce Scott (Rick Moses), a world-famous ski champion, and two rival figure skaters.
Unfortunately, the plane carrying David's business partner crashes into the mountain due to low visibility, starting an avalanche. Tons of snow roll down the mountain, destroying the ski ramp, the skating rink, and the resort, resulting in an immense loss of life. David gets trapped at the skating rink but manages to dig himself out. He makes it to the resort, where McDade (Robert Forster) and Florence are trapped under a staircase in the dining room. A gas leak in the kitchen causes an explosion, injuring more people and taking out the phone lines.
David, McDade, and Florence must find a way to survive until help arrives. They are able to find food and water, but they must also deal with the dangers of the avalanche, including aftershocks, fires, and the threat of hypothermia.
Avalanche is a suspenseful and thrilling film that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. It is also a cautionary tale about the dangers of nature and the importance of preparedness.
The film was a moderate critical and commercial success. It was praised for its realistic special effects and its suspenseful story. However, some critics felt that the film was too melodramatic and that the characters were underdeveloped.
Despite its flaws, Avalanche is an entertaining and suspenseful film that is sure to please fans of disaster movies. It is a classic example of the genre, and it is still enjoyed by audiences today.
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Director: Corey Allen
Writers: Corey Allen Frances Doel Gavin Lambert
Box Office Gross: $87,500
Distributor: New World Pictures
Release Date: August 30, 1978