In the gripping thriller "Countdown," we delve into the dark mind of Chris Murdoch, a man consumed by a toxic obsession for Kaori Ozaki, a Japanese student at a university in Seattle. Driven by a misguided sense of revenge for the atrocities committed during World War II, Chris believes he is righting historical wrongs by targeting Japanese men who have shown kindness to Kaori. As his psychotic vendetta escalates into a series of murders, it becomes evident that his actions are rooted in deep-seated hatred and a warped sense of justice. The film intricately weaves a narrative that explores themes of obsession, cultural conflict, and the haunting shadows of the past.
As Chris's crime spree gains attention, the FBI steps in, led by the determined Agent Sara Daniels. Sara is tasked with unraveling the mystery behind this string of killings, and quickly realizes that Chris's actions are not just personal but symbolically charged by historical grievances. While she pursues him, her investigation is complicated by the arrival of Yoko Sugimura, a police officer from Tokyo, sent to retrieve Kaori and bring her back to her powerful father. Tensions arise between Sara and Yoko as they initially clash over their methodologies and differing perspectives on the case, but soon they realize they must put aside their differences to confront a shared threat.
As the stakes rise, the narrative intensifies with Chris escalating his plans to further entrench himself in madness, culminating in a final showdown that includes high explosives – a chilling literal and metaphorical countdown to disaster. The alliance formed between Sara and Yoko becomes crucial as they race against time to thwart Chris's dangerous ambitions. "Countdown" ultimately serves as a compelling commentary on the destructive nature of obsession and revenge, showcasing how personal vendettas can spiral into chaos, impacting not just individuals but entire communities. Through a mix of action, suspense, and poignant moments of character development, the film invites viewers to ponder the destructive legacies of the past and the paths to healing.
Main Cast of Countdown
Lori Petty
Lori Petty delivered a compelling performance as Sara Daniels in the 1996 science fiction thriller 'Countdown,' directed by Keoni Waxman. As a dedicated astronaut aboard the space shuttle Columbia, Petty's portrayal of Daniels is one of resilience and determination. Faced with the harrowing scenario of a potential collision with a rogue asteroid, her character must navigate the complexities of both the impending disaster and the interpersonal dynamics within the crew. Petty brings a palpable intensity to the role, showcasing Daniels' professionalism and emotional depth as she grapples with the high-stakes mission and her own personal demons. Her performance is a testament to her range as an actress, seamlessly blending vulnerability with strength, and adding a human touch to the film's thrilling narrative. Lori Petty's Sara Daniels stands as a memorable character in the realm of space-disaster movies, thanks to her nuanced and engaging portrayal.
Jason London
In the movie "Countdown," Jason London steps into the role of Chris Murdoch with a performance that deftly balances the character's internal struggle and external bravado. As a highly skilled and resourceful thief, London's portrayal of Murdoch is both charismatic and enigmatic, drawing the audience into the mind of a man who is as cunning as he is conflicted. His on-screen presence is commanding, as he navigates through the high-stakes world of elaborate heists, all while maintaining a careful balance between his loyalty to his crew and his own moral compass. London brings a depth to Murdoch that transcends the typical antihero, infusing the character with a sense of vulnerability that makes his journey compelling and his ultimate decisions in the face of a ticking clock both gripping and thought-provoking. His performance is a highlight of the film, providing a complex character study wrapped in the adrenaline-fueled package of a classic heist thriller.
Secondary Cast of Countdown
Michael Patten
Leslie Do Qui
Fredrick Charles Canada
Stephen Rutledge
Robert I. Lee
Kerry Skalsky
Ron Sarchian
Bret Kiene
Crew of Countdown
Full backstage crew list →- Released on November 23, 1996