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Poseidon Adventure

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description Poseidon Adventure Overview

The Poseidon Adventure is a 1972 American disaster film directed by Ronald Neame and produced by Irwin Allen. Based on Paul Gallico's 1969 novel, the plot follows a group of passengers struggling to survive after their luxury ocean liner, the SS Poseidon, is capsized by a massive tsunami. Featuring an ensemble cast including Gene Hackman, Ernest Borgnine, and Shelley Winters, the film was a major box office success. It is recognized for establishing the formula for the star-studded disaster movie genre that dominated the 1970s.

help Poseidon Adventure FAQ

What causes the disaster in The Poseidon Adventure?

A massive rogue wave capsizes the luxury ocean liner SS Poseidon during its voyage. The surviving passengers must climb upward through the overturned ship because the usual decks have become a maze of flooded and dangerous compartments.

Who leads the survivors in The Poseidon Adventure?

Gene Hackman plays Reverend Frank Scott, who argues that the survivors should move toward the hull rather than wait in the ballroom. Shelley Winters plays Belle Rosen, one of the passengers who joins the difficult escape.

Is The Poseidon Adventure based on a book?

Yes, Ronald Neame's 1972 film adapts Paul Gallico's 1969 novel The Poseidon Adventure. Producer Irwin Allen helped turn the capsized-liner premise into one of the best-known disaster films of the 1970s.

Does The Poseidon Adventure have a direct sequel?

Yes, Beyond the Poseidon Adventure followed in 1979 and was also produced by Irwin Allen. The sequel begins after the original disaster and follows people searching the damaged ship for survivors and valuables.

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