Two-Minute Warning: More Than Just a '70s Disaster Flick

Alright, folks, I just revisited 'Two-Minute Warning' (1976) and it's way more interesting than I remembered. Yeah, it's got that classic Irwin Allen-esque disaster movie vibe – sprawling cast, impending doom, the works. But beneath the surface, there's a surprisingly effective thriller lurking. The unknown sniper angle is genuinely unsettling, especially how they drip-feed you information about his motivations (or lack thereof). The tension builds really effectively as the game progresses, and you see Captain Holly and the SWAT team scrambling to figure things out before the, well, you know. I also like how it explores the media frenzy around such an event; it feels pretty relevant even today. What really elevates it for me is the grounded portrayal of the cops. Charlton Heston as Holly is solid, delivering that weary, seen-it-all performance he does so well. John Cassavetes, though, just steals every scene he's in as the SWAT commander. You totally buy him as this no-nonsense guy who's willing to do what needs to be done, even if it's morally grey. The scenes inside the stadium are also well-done considering the limitations of the day. The way the crowd roars, and the chaos when...things...go down is palpable. There are so many extras, it feels like a real event. However, it's not perfect. Some of the subplots involving the various spectators feel a bit tacked-on and unnecessary, and some of the dialogue is cheesy even for the 70s. And the ending, while impactful, feels a bit rushed, like they ran out of ideas. And honestly, the ending is quite bleak. It's not a "feel-good" movie in anyway. Overall, 'Two-Minute Warning' is a suspenseful and thought-provoking thriller that's aged better than I expected. If you're a fan of '70s suspense or disaster movies, give it a shot. Just don't expect a lighthearted romp. It's a pretty grim look at society's obsession with violence and the lengths people will go to for attention. And maybe think twice before planning your next stadium visit – just kidding... mostly.