Cold War Film Intrigues Opening Night Audience

"2001: A Space Odyssey" has left Salt Lake, but its loss should not be lamented because "Ice Station Zebra" has opened in its place.

The Cold War drama premiered Wednesday at the Villa. Despite a rather far-fetched story line, the audience's attention is held tightly by suspense and intrigue.

Rock Hudson stars as the commander of a nuclear submarine commissioned for a voyage to the North Pole to rescue survivors at Ice Station Zebra. Patrick McGoohan, known for his television series "Secret Agent," and "The Prisoner," gives an outstanding performance as the British agent who joins the submarine crew, but for a reason other than rescue. He has secret orders to recover film from a Russian satellite.

The Russian satellite, downed at the North Pole, carries film of vital importance to both Communist and Western powers. The submarine's crew enters into a thrilling race with the Russians for possession of the film.

Ernest Borgnine creates a sense of mystery around his portrayal of the Russian Vaslov. Jim Brown is cast as a tough Marine Captain.

The film's tour de force is its suspense. Taut moments grip the audience as the submarine tries to surface through a weak spot in the Polar Ice Cap, and as the submarine crew is confronted with parachuting Russians.

"Ice Station Zebra," directed by John Sturges and produced by Martin Ransohoff, should be commended for its realistic set design. The recreation of the Polar region gives audiences an authentic view of a part of the world they may never see, a submarine was borrowed from the Navy for filming exterior scenes, but those scenes involving the sub's interior were effectively "built" to give the effect of audience involvement.

Wednesday's performance was a benefit for the Murray Junior Football Conference, District No. 3. Regular performances commence Thursday.