"Earthquake" is a 1974 American disaster film that stands as a testament to the cinematic fascination with natural calamities during the 1970s. Directed by Mark Robson and featuring a star-studded cast, the movie delves into the lives of various Los Angeles residents as they grapple with the aftermath of a devastating earthquake.
Released on November 15, 1974, the film not only showcased groundbreaking visual effects for its time but also resonated with audiences, making it a significant entry in the disaster film genre.
Plot Summary:
Set against the sprawling backdrop of Los Angeles, "Earthquake" intertwines the lives of its diverse characters, setting the stage for their collective struggle against nature's fury.
The narrative follows Stewart Graff (Charlton Heston), an engineer caught in a complicated marital relationship with Remy (Ava Gardner), and his budding romance with Denise Marshall (Geneviève Bujold).
As personal tensions rise, the ground beneath them begins to rumble, culminating in a catastrophic earthquake that tears the city apart.
Amidst the chaos, the characters must navigate collapsing buildings, raging fires, and the ensuing panic, all while confronting their personal demons and trying to find their loved ones.
Cast and Characters:
- Charlton Heston as Stewart Graff: An engineer trapped in an unhappy marriage, Stewart becomes one of the central figures trying to save survivors post-earthquake.
- Ava Gardner as Remy Royce-Graff: Stewart's estranged wife, Remy's character adds depth to the personal drama unfolding amidst the disaster.
- Geneviève Bujold as Denise Marshall: A budding romantic interest for Stewart, Denise's resilience shines as the city crumbles around her.
- Lorne Greene as Sam Royce: Remy's father and Stewart's boss, Sam's character showcases the challenges of leadership during crises.
- George Kennedy as Sgt. Lew Slade: A police officer who becomes an unlikely hero, navigating the disaster-stricken city to help survivors.
- Richard Roundtree as Miles Quade: A motorcycle stuntman, Miles's daredevilry is put to the test in the face of real danger.
Where to Stream
United States (US):
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Brazil (BR):
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France (FR):
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Canada (CA):
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Production Details:
"Earthquake" was a monumental undertaking in terms of production, primarily due to its ambitious visual effects and the need to depict large-scale destruction convincingly.
- Filming Locations: While set in Los Angeles, the movie utilized various locations within the city to capture its vastness and diversity. Iconic landmarks, including the Hollywood Reservoir and Mulholland Dam, were featured prominently.
- Special Effects: The film employed a technique known as "Sensurround," which used large subwoofers to create low-frequency sounds, simulating the sensation of an earthquake in theaters. This innovative approach added a layer of immersion for the audience, making them feel the tremors.
- Challenges: One of the significant challenges was ensuring the safety of the cast and crew while filming large-scale destruction scenes. Miniature models, practical effects, and early computer graphics were combined to achieve the desired level of realism.
Reception and Awards:
Upon its release, "Earthquake" garnered a mixed reception from critics. While some praised its technical achievements, especially the groundbreaking "Sensurround" system, others felt the character development was overshadowed by the emphasis on spectacle.
Financially, the film was a success, grossing over $79 million against a budget of $7 million. Its impact on the disaster film genre was undeniable, inspiring a slew of similar movies in the following years.
"Earthquake" was recognized at the 47th Academy Awards, winning the Oscar for Best Sound and receiving a Special Achievement Academy Award for introducing the "Sensurround" technology. It also secured nominations for Best Art Direction and Best Film Editing.
Trivia and Behind-the-Scenes:
- The "Sensurround" system was so effective that during test screenings, plaster from the theater's ceiling fell, making audiences believe it was a promotional gimmick.
- Despite its title and premise, the film's main stars, including Charlton Heston and Ava Gardner, never actually filmed scenes where they were directly affected by the earthquake's tremors.
- The movie's success led to other disaster films adopting similar sound techniques to enhance the audience's experience, though none quite replicated the unique feel of "Sensurround."
In conclusion, "Earthquake" (1974) remains a pivotal film in the disaster genre, remembered not just for its portrayal of nature's wrath but also for its innovative approach to sound and effects. Its legacy is a testament to cinema's power to both entertain and immerse audiences in experiences beyond their everyday lives.