Death Ship (1980 film)

Death Ship is a Canadian-British horror film released in 1980, directed by Alvin Rakoff and starring George Kennedy, Richard Crenna, and Nick Mancuso. The film centers on the survivors of a cruise liner disaster who find themselves aboard a mysterious, seemingly deserted Nazi torture ship adrift at sea.

The plot unfolds as the survivors, led by Captain Ashland (Kennedy), try to understand the ship's sinister nature and history. They soon discover that the vessel is possessed by an evil force and is actively attempting to kill them. The ship's steel structure bleeds, hatches slam shut on their own, and the ship seems to lure them to their deaths. The film features graphic violence and explores themes of guilt, paranoia, and the enduring legacy of Nazi atrocities.

Death Ship is known for its claustrophobic atmosphere, unsettling imagery, and practical effects. While it received mixed reviews upon its initial release, it has since gained a cult following due to its disturbing content and unique premise. The film's low-budget production values contribute to its gritty and unsettling feel.