It’s easy to overlook just how entertaining a suspenseful film Zero Hour! really is, especially given its recognition through the parody Airplane in 1980. Dana Andrews portrays an airman carrying emotional baggage from wartime experiences who must confront his personal struggles when those on board the large passenger plane he's flying become ill due to contaminated food. Sterling Hayden appears as a character on the ground, seemingly indifferent and reliant on cigarettes while expressing little confidence in guiding Andrews to a safe landing. As one of the earliest films within the disaster-themed airplane genre, it establishes many conventions still seen today: a central figure with personal problems, family conflicts, characters who remain composed alongside those who succumb to panic, attractive women, strong-jawed men, severe weather conditions, and an aircraft facing imminent danger of crashing. While occasionally feeling somewhat contrived and lacking depth in its plot progression, the film fully embraces the dramatic elements and delivers a tense final thirty minutes that can genuinely keep you on the edge of your seat. Those who appreciate films of this type should definitely make time for it. It’s perfectly acceptable to enjoy Airplane! and prefer its comedic approach, but it's also appropriate to acknowledge Zero Hour! with respect. 7.5/10

Source on TMDB