Zeppelin (1971)

Set in 1915, a British spy (Michael York) in Germany is gathering information on the new design of a new zeppelin airship that could possibly affect the outcome of WWI. Directed by the Belgian Etienne Perier (BRIDGE TO THE SUN), this is an exciting WWI adventure that is much leaner than some of its similar Alistair MacLean brethren. The suspense reaches momentum during the maiden test voyage which turns out to be not to be a test voyage at all but an actual mission of invading Scotland. While more modest in scale than the bigger WWII adventure films like WHERE EAGLES DARE or THE GUNS OF NAVARONE, it still provides its share of thrills as it zips along nicely. The wide screen cinematography by Alan Hume (FOR YOUR EYES ONLY) splendidly captures the excitement of a perilous aerial undertaking. The film's reviews were dismissive but if you're a WWI buff or even if you're not, there's a lot to enjoy here. With Elke Sommer (surprisingly good) as the wife of the zeppelin's designer (Marius Goring, THE RED SHOES), both of who find themselves unwilling passengers on the deadly mission. With Alexandra Stewart, Anton Diffring and Peter Carsten.