A top-secret Soviet spy satellite -- using stolen Western technology -- malfunctions and then goes into a descent that lands it near an isolated Arctic research encampment called Ice Station Zebra, belonging to the British, which starts sending out distress signals before falling silent. The atomic submarine Tigerfish, commanded by Cmdr. James Ferraday (Rock Hudson), is dispatched to save them.

'Ice Station Zebra' delivers stunning Oscar-nominated cinematography and a universally praised Michel Legrand score that elevate this Cold War thriller. Patrick McGoohan's charismatic performance stands out, and most find the suspenseful espionage elements taut and tense. However, the film proves divisive: many criticize its sluggish pacing and excessive 148-minute runtime, while the Arctic station sets appear unconvincingly artificial. Some find it riveting throughout, but equally many describe it as tedious and boring, making this a polarizing experience.