The Cold Equations (1996): cast, story & where to watch
1996 · Film · ★ 4
Released in 1996, The Cold Equations is an action, thriller and science fiction film directed by Peter Geiger, running about 92 minutes. “Out of time. Out in space. The only choice is life or death.” — that tagline sets the tone.
What it’s about. Lieutenant John Barton is sent on a special mission to deliver a special vaccine to a distant mining colony. He is infuriated to find Lee, a stowaway aboard his spacecraft. Barton has only enough fuel to carry himself and his precious cargo, and Lee's added weight insures that they will crash if she stays on board. They have gone too far to turn back, and Barton's superiors make it clear: the mission takes precedence and Lee has to be dumped into space. But she won't go quietly.
Who’s in it. The Cold Equations stars Billy Campbell as John Barton, Poppy Montgomery as Lee Cross, Daniel Roebuck as Mitch and William R. Moses as Adrian Cross, among others.
How it landed. With an audience score of 4.0/10, The Cold Equations has proved divisive with audiences.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch The Cold Equations page.
If you liked it. Fans of The Cold Equations tend to enjoy The Dark Knight, The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King, Inception and The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch The Cold Equations (1996)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for The Cold Equations change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is The Cold Equations worth watching?
- The Cold Equations holds an audience score of 4.0 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy action, thriller and science fiction. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- Who stars in The Cold Equations?
- The Cold Equations stars Billy Campbell, Poppy Montgomery, Daniel Roebuck, William R. Moses and John Prosky.
- When was The Cold Equations released?
- The Cold Equations was released in 1996, with a runtime of about 92 minutes.