Is Avalanche Express Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Avalanche Express is likely a skip if you enjoy Action movies.
It features a runtime of 85 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Avalanche Express Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1979, Avalanche Express enters the Action genre with a narrative focused on CIA agent Harry Wargrave is sent to aid Gen. Under the direction of Mark Robson, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Lee Marvin, Robert Shaw, Linda Evans. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, Avalanche Express offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. The sharp editing keeps the narrative moving at a brisk pace, maximizing the impact of the key sequences.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, Avalanche Express resonates with current cultural themes in the Action space. It stays within the established boundaries of its genre, providing exactly what core fans expect without reinventing the wheel.
Where to Watch & Streaming Info
As of January 2026, Avalanche Express is available in theaters worldwide. For streaming audiences in the US, UK, and India, look for availability on major platforms roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release. Don't miss the high-definition experience provided by premium large format (PLF) screenings.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of Avalanche Express centers on a unique premise within the Action landscape. CIA agent Harry Wargrave is sent to aid Gen. Marenkov, a senior Russian official, who is defecting to the west. Wargrave decides they should travel to safety on a train across Europe, the "Atlantic Express". During the journey, they must survive attacks by terrorists and an avalanche, all planned by Russian spy-catcher Nikolai Bunin. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1979 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of Avalanche Express has sparked significant debate on social media. It signifies the ambiguous resolution of the main plot thread. Given the current box office momentum, discussions of a Avalanche Express sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for Avalanche Express (1979): with an audience rating of 4.7/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of Action, Thriller cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
Avalanche Express is rated PG. Parents should be aware that it contains violence, action sequences, mature themes. It is generally suitable for all ages.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 4.7/10, and global collection metrics, Avalanche Express stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1979 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Avalanche Express movie hit or flop?
Avalanche Express is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.7/10 and lower collections.
Is Avalanche Express worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4.7/10, Avalanche Express may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
What genre is Avalanche Express?
Avalanche Express is a Action, Thriller movie that CIA agent Harry Wargrave is sent to aid Gen. Marenkov, a senior Russian official, who is defecting to the west. Wargrave decides they should travel to...
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is Avalanche Express movie hit or flop?
Avalanche Express is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.7/10 and lower collections.
Is Avalanche Express worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4.7/10, Avalanche Express may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
What genre is Avalanche Express?
Avalanche Express is a Action, Thriller movie that CIA agent Harry Wargrave is sent to aid Gen. Marenkov, a senior Russian official, who is defecting to the west. Wargrave decides they should travel to...
Is Avalanche Express family friendly?
Avalanche Express may not be suitable for all family members as it contains Action, Thriller elements. Parental guidance is recommended.
Where can I watch Avalanche Express?
You can find streaming options and availability for Avalanche Express on popular platforms. Check movieMx for the latest updates and reviews.
Who is the main cast of Avalanche Express?
Avalanche Express features a talented cast. Check our "Top Cast" section to see the full list of actors and the characters they play in this film.
How long is the movie Avalanche Express?
The runtime and duration of Avalanche Express are available in the movie details section. It's a gripping story that keeps you engaged from start to finish.
Critic Reviews
Stop the train, I want to get off. Awful attempt at blending a political thriller with disaster movie shenanigans, Avalanche Express is also a sad end to the careers of Robert Shaw (Jaws/The Sting) and Mark Robson (The Seventh Victim/Bedlam). Both of whom died during the production. Plot essentially sees Shaw's Soviet official, Marenkov, defecting to the west whilst aiming to kill off his homeland's biological weapons programme in the process. Basically putting himself up as bait to flesh out the baddies, Marenkov is being protected by Lee Marvin's CIA agent Harry Wargrave and his pals. Cue a train snaking through the snowy mountains as they all try to evade an avalanche and some shifty types attempting to spoil the mission. There's a whole bunch of talking and a whole bunch of actors drifting in and out of the film without making a mark. The action, what little there is, is slip-shod and the dubbing of Shaw only brings more sadness to what is quite simply a sad movie! Jack Cardiff's photography is crisp and deserves a better film, and even though the model work on show is a bit hit and miss, it does have a quaintness that steers you away from the turgid screenplay. But all told it's a boring mess of a movie and really only one for Marvin and Shaw fans to tick off of their lists. 3.5/10