Rocket Attack U.S.A.
Rocket Attack U.S.A., also known as Five Minutes to Zero, is a 1958 propaganda espionage/science fiction film produced, directed, and edited by Barry Mahon, who intended to exploit the launching of Sputnik.
Plot
American secret agents, John and Tanya, are sent to the USSR after British agents relay information on a Russian plot to bomb America. The duo discover that the Soviets intend launching an ICBM sneak attack against the United States on the night that they arrive. The Russians are using information gathered by Sputnik to plan the attack, and as the American spies' attempt to sabotage one rocket fails, they are shot. And because of this, the Russians now have the reason for launching the missile: Americans are attempting to stop them.Back in the United States, as the missile closes in, a radio reporter stays on the air to assist those threatened in the emergency as American defense missiles prove too slow to defend the country. The reporter's wife knows this will be his death sentence. As Manhattan is hit and 3 million are killed, a general bemoans the lack of a functioning ICBM missile defense system. The efforts to strengthen the US defense system were unsuccessful owing to limited funding and effort. The US retaliation is expected to be minimal as the Russian defenses have been properly funded and maintained. The end title begs the audience not to let this be the end.
Cast
- John McKay as John Manston
- Monica Davis as Tanya / Tannah
- Daniel Kern
- Edward Czerniuk
- Phillip St. George as General Walker
- Art Metrano as Truck Driver