Bear Island (1979)

Under the auspices of NATO, a group of international scientists arrive on a remote Arctic island to study climate changes. The island was used by the Nazis during WWII as a U-boat base. But after several deaths occur, it becomes clear that someone in the group has an ulterior motive for being on the island that has nothing to do with the scientific expedition. Based on the novel by Alistair MacLean (GUNS OF NAVARONE), this is a rather plodding action-adventure piece, often difficult to follow. The illustrious cast includes Vanessa Redgrave, Donald Sutherland, Richard Widmark, Christopher Lee, Lloyd Bridges and Barbara Parkins but their generic roles don't give them any opportunities to stretch their acting muscles. There is a fairly exciting chase sequence near the film's end with Redgrave and Sutherland on caterpillars (not the insect, the snowmobile kind) attempting to elude the bad guys. The snowbound Alaskan and British Columbia locations are majestically filmed by Alan Hume (RETURN OF THE JEDI) and the regal score is by Robert Farnon. Directed by Don Sharp and with Lawrence Dane and Bruce Greenwood.