
Fail Safe (2000) on Netflix
A technical failure sends an attack code to a group of U.S. bombers during the Cold War. Colonel Grady cannot confirm the order with headquarters and turns Group Six toward Moscow.
- Netflix3.4/5
- IMDb7.4/106,877 votes
- Rotten Tomatoes100%
Trailer
Plot summary
In the early 1960s, with Cold War tensions high, an unidentified aircraft approaches North America. Strategic Air Command sends its Vindicator bombers to fail safe points close to the Russian Far East, which they may not pass without a special attack code. The intruder proves harmless and recall orders go out, but a technical failure transmits the code CAP811 to Group Six, six Vindicator bombers and four escort fighters. Colonel Grady, who commands the group, tries to confirm the order with SAC headquarters in Omaha; Soviet jamming keeps him from hearing the reply, and he heads for Moscow. In Omaha, at the Pentagon and in the White House shelter, officials and scholars debate the response. Professor Groeteschele calls for a full-scale attack on the Soviet Union, while the President orders the group's escort fighters after the bombers.
Cast
Walter Cronkiteas Himself - Host
Richard Dreyfussas President
Noah Wyleas Buck
Brian Dennehyas Gen. Bogan
Sam Elliottas Congressman Raskob
James Cromwellas Gordon Knapp
John Diehlas Col. Cascio
Hank Azariaas Prof. Groeteschele
Norman Lloydas Defense Secretary Swenson
Bill Smitrovichas Gen. Stark (as William Smitrovich)
Don Cheadleas Lt. Jimmy Pierce
George Clooneyas Col. Jack Grady
Did you know?!Facts and trivia about Fail Safe (2000)
Can contain spoilers, watch the movie first.
- The April 9, 2000 presentation of Fail Safe was the first live broadcast of a dramatic movie, a televised play, on CBS since May 1960.
- The production was shot and aired in black and white, the same format as the 1964 theatrical film, using 22 cameras on multiple sets.

























