Salyut-7

This Russian drama has been billed as the Soviet version of Apollo 13, based as it is on another real-life rescue mission in space. In 1985, the unmanned orbiting Salyut-7 space station suddenly loses power, prompting fears that it might crash back to Earth. A two-man crew is selected to carry out repairs, comprising engineer and expectant father Viktor Alekhin (Pavel Derevyanko) and commander Vladimir Fedorov (Vladimir Vdovichenkov), who is a gamble for all concerned after questions are raised regarding his mental state. The film's ponderous first hour gives way to a more suspenseful second, as the cosmonauts dock with the stricken space station and attempt to bring it back to life. To add to their troubles, Soviet authorities are convinced a US shuttle is on its way to capture Salyut-7 in an act of Cold War aggression. Top-notch special effects bring the story to life, while the uneasy dynamic between the cosmonauts creates a few sparks in the zero-gravity confines of their floating tin can. Director/co-writer Klim Shipenko may embellish the facts to heighten the peril, but they only add to the enjoyment of this little-known chapter of space history.