Opened: March 11, 1977

Directed by: Jerry Jameson

Starring: Jack Lemmon, Lee Grant, Brenda Vaccaro, Joseph Cotten, Olivia de Havilland, Darren McGavin, Christopher Lee, Robert Foxworth, Robert Hooks, Monte Markham, Kathleen Quinlan, Gil Gerard, James Booth, Monica Lewis, Maidie Norman, Pamela Bellwood, Arlene Golonka, Tom Sullivan, M. Emmet Walsh, Michael Pataki, George Furth, Richard Venture, Elizabeth Cheshire, Anthony Battaglia, George Kennedy & James Stewart

Airport ’77 may be a fun disaster movie that’s not meant for those with claustrophobia but if you’re looking for any gripping characters, this is not the film for you.

While on a flight to Palm Beach, Philip Stevens’ (James Stewart) private airplane is highjacked for the valuables onboard, but a crash over the Bermuda Triangle plunges the boat underwater. Captain Don Gallagher (Jack Lemmon) must figure out how to save his passengers before the pressure floods the plane.

There’s almost no character development in the film, especially after the crash happens, so there’s not really a reason to root for their safety. The only emotional connection is Philip’s daughter (Pamela Bellwood) and grandson Benjy (Anthony Battaglia) being stuck while Philip nervously watches from above.

Regardless, the fun of a disaster film with an all-star cast is enough to make this a watch.

Final say: A solid crash. ★★★☆☆