Crack in the World (1965) – Nostalgia Central

Terminally ill Dr Stephen Sorenson (Dana Andrews) plans to use a thermonuclear device detonated deep within the Earth to tap the geothermal energy of the planet’s interior to provide an endless source of clean energy for humankind.

Despite dire warnings from chief geologist Ted Rampion (Kieron Moore) – who is involved romantically with Stephen’s younger wife and fellow scientist, Dr Maggie Sorenson (Janette Scott) –  Sorenson proceeds with ‘Project Inner Space’ and causes a massive subterranean fissure to form and widen within the Earth’s crust, threatening to split the planet in two if it is not stopped in time.

The explosion also causes earthquakes and tidal waves that swallow up whole cities and scatter the panic-stricken populace like hordes of disrupted ants.

Alexander Knox co-stars as Sir Charles Eggerston, the government representative overseeing the project.

The film – a cautionary tale about scientific hubris and the unintended consequences of tampering with nature –  famously concludes with a desperate attempt to stop the crack using a second atomic bomb, ultimately resulting in a piece of the Earth being blasted into space to form a second moon.

Shooting took place in Madrid and the Canary Islands, as well as at Samuel Bronston Studios and CEA Studios. The “Central Operations” set was one of the largest enclosed sets constructed in Spain to date.

The spectacular miniature work and explosive practical effects were designed by Eugene Lourié, a legendary production designer and director known for giant monster classics like Gorgo and The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms.

Dr Stephen Sorenson
Dana Andrews
Dr Maggie Sorenson
Janette Scott
Dr Ted Rampion
Kieron Moore
Sir Charles Eggerston
Alexander Knox
John Masefield
Peter Damon
Rand
Jim Gillen
Markov
Gary Lasdun
Dr Bill Evans
Alfred Brown
Steele
Mike Steen
Angela
Sydna Scott
Dr Reynolds
John Karlsen
Simpson
Todd Martin
Indian Ambassador
Ben Tatar

Director
Andrew Marton