IMDb 5.9 1982 HD

Deadline

Deadline

1982
Thriller TV Movie
94 min NR USA
6 / 10
5.9 IMDB

A journalist sets out to report on a minor earthquake in the Australian outback, and finds that the tremor was a result of a small nuclear explosion -…

Personnel // Cast & Crew

Director Arch Nicholson / Caroline Stanton / Charles Rotherham / John Warran / David Trethewey
Starring
Barry Newman / Bill Kerr / Trisha Noble / Alwyn Kurts / John Ewart / Bruce Spence / Willie Fennell / Vincent Ball

How Viewers Describe This Film

Common themes and sentiments

tense intriguing suspenseful political dramatic thrilling engaging dated slow conspiracy urgent action

Reviews

I
Isabelle Moreau
May 22, 2026
3.5 / 5
3.5

'Deadline' offers a compelling blend of investigative journalism and high-stakes political thriller. Barry Newman plays the driven reporter with a quiet intensity, effectively conveying the weight of the unfolding nuclear crisis. The film’s exploration of government reaction and…

A
Arthur Finch
May 22, 2026
4.5 / 5
4.5

A gripping and intelligent political thriller, 'Deadline' is a gem often overlooked. Barry Newman is superb as the journalist who stumbles upon a nuclear plot, his investigation leading him into a dangerous dance with shadowy security agencies. The…

G
Genevieve Dubois
May 22, 2026
3.0 / 5
3.0

This 1982 offering, 'Deadline,' presents an intriguing premise of nuclear blackmail set against the vast Australian landscape. Barry Newman delivers a capable performance, conveying the urgency of his character’s journalistic quest. However, the film struggles to fully capitalise…

M
Marcus Bellweather
May 22, 2026
4.0 / 5
4.0

'Deadline' is a surprisingly potent thriller that leverages its Australian origins to great effect. Newman is convincing as the determined reporter chasing a story that quickly escalates from a minor tremor to a full-blown nuclear crisis. The film…

E
Eleanor Vance
May 22, 2026
3.5 / 5
3.5

Barry Newman anchors 'Deadline' with a solid performance as a journalist thrust into a terrifying nuclear blackmail plot. The film’s Australian outback setting provides a stark and effective backdrop for the escalating tension. While the direction is competent,…

FAQs

Indeed, 'Deadline' delves into the heart of political intrigue and conspiracy. The core plot revolves around a nuclear explosion used for extortion, placing the government in a precarious position of nuclear blackmail. The protagonist's investigation, met with resistance from security agencies, strongly indicates a narrative steeped in secrets, hidden agendas, and the complex machinations of power. This suggests a film that will appeal to those who enjoy uncovering layers of deception and political manoeuvring.