Is The Fifth Missile Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, The Fifth Missile is likely a skip if you enjoy Drama movies.
It features a runtime of 144 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
The Fifth Missile Review
Last updated: January 11, 2026
The Premise
Released in 1986, The Fifth Missile enters the Drama genre with a narrative focused on The crew of a Polaris submarine, on a training mission simulating an attack on Russia, is stricken by toxic poisoning. Under the direction of Larry Peerce, the film attempts to weave detailed character arcs with visual storytelling.
Cast & Performance
The film is anchored by performances from Robert Conrad. While the cast delivers competent performances, the script occasionally limits their range.
Technical Mastery & Style
From a technical standpoint, The Fifth Missile offers a competent presentation. The cinematography uses a distinct visual palette that aligns well with the tone. While the 4K mastering highlights the production value, the pacing during its 144-minute runtime can feel deliberate.
Social Impact & Cultural Context
Beyond the narrative, The Fifth Missile resonates with current cultural themes in the Drama 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 early 2026, The Fifth Missile is available in theaters worldwide. For audiences in the US, UK, and India, digital rentals are typically available on platforms like Amazon Prime and Apple TV roughly 45-60 days after the theatrical release.
Narrative Arc & Plot Breakdown
The plot of The Fifth Missile centers on a unique premise within the Drama landscape. The crew of a Polaris submarine, on a training mission simulating an attack on Russia, is stricken by toxic poisoning. One of the poison's effects is to make its victims hallucinate, and the sub's captain imagines that he has been given an order to actually attack Russia. He prepares to do exactly that. The second act serves as a major turning point, leading to a climax that fans of 1986 cinema will find fairly predictable.
Ending Explained & Sequel Potential
The ending of The Fifth Missile 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 The Fifth Missile sequel or a wider cinematic universe are already gaining traction.
Final Editorial Verdict
Final verdict for The Fifth Missile (1986): with an audience rating of 4.8/10, the reception has been negative. It is a recommended for fans of Drama, Thriller, TV Movie cinema who appreciate attention to detail.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
The Fifth Missile has not been officially rated yet. However, due to its genre classification (Drama, Thriller, TV Movie), viewers should expect mature themes, violence.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 4.8/10, and global collection metrics, The Fifth Missile stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 1986 cinematic year.
Official Trailer
Frequently Asked Questions
Is The Fifth Missile movie hit or flop?
The Fifth Missile is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.8/10 and lower collections.
Is The Fifth Missile worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4.8/10, The Fifth Missile may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch The Fifth Missile online?
The Fifth Missile may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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People Also Ask (FAQs)
Is The Fifth Missile movie hit or flop?
The Fifth Missile is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 4.8/10 and lower collections.
Is The Fifth Missile worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 4.8/10, The Fifth Missile may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch The Fifth Missile online?
The Fifth Missile may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
What is the story of The Fifth Missile?
The Fifth Missile is a Drama, Thriller, TV Movie movie that follows: The crew of a Polaris submarine, on a training mission simulating an attack on Russia, is stricken by toxic poisoning. One of the poison's effects is to make its victims hallucinate, and the sub's cap...
Is The Fifth Missile family friendly?
The Fifth Missile falls under Drama, Thriller, TV Movie, which often contain intense scenes. Parental discretion is advised.
What language is The Fifth Missile available in?
The Fifth Missile is primarily available in its original language, with subtitles and dubbed versions available on various streaming services and digital stores.
Synopsis
The crew of a Polaris submarine, on a training mission simulating an attack on Russia, is stricken by toxic poisoning. One of the poison's effects is to make its victims hallucinate, and the sub's captain imagines that he has been given an order to actually attack Russia. He prepares to do exactly that.
Critic Reviews
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