When Time Ran Out

When Time Ran Out is a disaster film from 1980, directed by James Goldstone and starring a star-studded ensemble featuring Paul Newman, Jacqueline Bisset, William Holden, and others. The film, based on the novel "The Day The World Ended" written by Gordon Thomas and Max Morgan-Witts, offers an adrenaline-pumping experience filled with suspense and high-end drama set against the backdrop of a breathtaking tropical paradise.

A Warner Bros. production, When Time Ran Out primarily revolves around the imminent eruption of a massive volcano which threatens to annihilate an idyllic holiday resort, that resides at the foot of the active caldera. The story unfolds amidst the mounting unrest on this tropical island, with the movie using this obvious peril as a backdrop, fleshing out the interpersonal relationships, greed for wealth, and the fight for survival.

Paul Newman stars as Hank Anderson, an unassuming yet determined oil rigger, who discovers the first signs of an impending volcanic eruption. A no-nonsense man, Newman unfurls his characteristic blend of gravitas and charisma as the early warning savior, blending his raw heroism and pragmatic nature in the face of impossible odds. Anderson's character is marked by his tumultuous relationship with the resort's owner Bob Spangler, played convincingly by William Holden.

Spangler, a wealthy businessman is more interested in the operation of his luxury resort hotel than the warning signs predicted by Hank. The rivalry between the two men is intense, with their clashing stubbornness epitomizing the film's dramatic tension—a telltale of selfish human instincts in the face of a shared calamity.

One of the many guests at the resort is Spangler's much younger girlfriend, Kay Kirby, portrayed by the glamorous Jacqueline Bisset. Kay finds herself caught between the bickering Hank and Spangler, leading to a complex love-interest subplot that keeps audiences riveted. With the growing anticipation of the eruption, the movie fosters a tense paradox, beautifully contrasting the calm and alluring tropical island life with the impending disaster.

The captivating storyline is further enriched with a strong supporting cast. These include a host of authentic and diverse characters like James Franciscus's cunning and manipulative businessman, Shelley Winters's hilarious stout lady with affections for her fellow hotel resident, and many more. Each of these characters are finely crafted, adding multiple dimensions to the storyline and engaging viewers through their varied reactions to the looming catastrophe.

When Time Ran Out isn't just a disaster flick, it effectively captures human emotions, resilience, and the struggle for survival in the face of calamity. The narrative is paced meticulously to balance the escalating tension of the inevitable disaster with the unfolding character arcs, ensuring an immersive storytelling experience.

Director James Goldstone conscientiously piles on the tension as the narrative progresses, leading to intense sequences rich in suspense. The film boasts some remarkable special effects for the time, turning the terrifying spectacle of a volcanic eruption into a riveting visual treat.

Scriptwriters Carl Foreman and Stirling Silliphant, utilize their considerable talents to craft a screenplay that encompasses both the disasters' horrifying reality and the human drama unfolding within it. A compelling score by Lalo Schifrin accentuates the intense on-screen proceedings, lending an additional layer of drama.

Paul Newman's commanding presence, Jacqueline Bisset's elegance, and William Holden's compelling performance, along with a fine supporting cast and thrilling plot, make When Time Ran Out a memorable addition to the disaster film genre. While the horrifying premise anchors the film, its engaging character dynamics and gripping storytelling ensure it transcends traditional disaster movie tropes, forming a compelling narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

In conclusion, When Time Ran Out provides not just a spectacle of catastrophic proportions, but is also a thrilling portrayal of how humans face impending disaster. It is a must-watch for those appreciative of classic disaster films that seamlessly blend suspense, drama, and a tinge of romance. The film is a testament to the fact that even when time seems to run out, the human spirit relentlessly struggles to survive.