The Flight that Disappeared (1961)

Introduction:

This popped up on Netflix download because we watched It! The Terror From Beyond Space. The premise sounded intriguing, so we gave it a shot. Was it a hidden gem or a buried bit of flotsam?

Summary:

It’s just another day and another job for the crew of a cross country flight from Los Angeles to Washington DC. Along for the ride are three scientists who are working on elements that could unleash the ultimate weapon – the most powerful atomic bomb ever created! Before you can say Rod Serling, the flight is targeted by an incredible force. As the plane climbs higher and higher, the crew is at a loss. Who has targeted these people and what does it want with them?

Good Points:

• An interesting premise
• Has some pretty tense scenes once the anomalies kick in
• The acting is pretty solid

Bad Points:

• Takes a pretty thin story and stretches it way too long
• Heavy handed in it’s moralizing
• You keep waiting for Mr. Serling to show up 

Overall:

Normally comparing something to The Twilight Zone isn’t a bad thing, but in this case, this feels more like a rejected story that got stretched way past it’s running time. While elements of it aren’t bad, the whole thing drags and the surprise ending isn’t too surprising. Not quite bad enough to riff on, and not quite good enough to be good find. Sadly, it’s just kind of there.

Scores (out of 5)

Visuals: 3

Sound: 3

Acting: 3

Script: 2

Music: 3

Direction: 2

Entertainment: 2

Total:  2

Curious about a full review, sent me an email and I’ll make additional thoughts to this review.