The Satan Bug

Directed by John Sturges from a script adapted from an Alistair MacLean novel (writing under the name Ian Stuart), 1965's The Satan Bug is an early biological warfare thriller. The premise involves the theft of six vials of deadly virus cultures from a top secret military research lab in the middle of the Nevada desert—one of which, nicknamed the "Satan Bug," could potentially destroy all life on earth. George Maharis (Route 66) stars as Lee Barrett, a retired military investigator called back on duty to find the stolen vials before they are unleashed on American soil, with Richard Basehart costarring as Dr. Gregor Hoffman, the top scientist at the facility. Sturges had memorably directed The Magnificent Seven and The Great Escape before tackling this project, but he failed to bring any energy to this slow, talky film shot in CinemaScope, a format that only draws attention to the static direction as characters interview suspects, argue over tactics, or brief Washington over the phone. Maharis hasn't the screen presence or charisma to anchor the lumbering production, while Dana Andrews is given little to do but intone gravely as a general overseeing the mission, and Anne Francis is wasted as a love interest (sharing little chemistry with Maharis). Simon Oakland and Edward Asner also appear in small roles. The main subject here is handled far better in 1971's The Andromeda Strain, which is both more scientifically interesting and dramatically thrilling. Extras include audio commentary by film historian Glenn Erickson. Not recommended. (S. Axmaker)