The Day the Earth Caught Fire (1961)

In a world trembling on the brink of catastrophe after the simultaneous detonation of nuclear bombs by both the United States and the Soviet Union, the very orbit of Earth is thrown off kilter. This global event triggers a drastic shift in weather patterns, transforming the familiar streets of London into an eerily unrecognizable landscape. Amidst this chaos, we meet Peter Stenning, a once-respected journalist now battling his own demons and drowning in alcohol. However, a chance encounter with the enigmatic telephonist, Jeannie Craig, sparks a passionate love affair that becomes their sanctuary amidst the mounting hysteria. As they navigate their way through this disoriented world, a chilling revelation comes to light through an overheard conversation - the nuclear blasts have tilted the Earth's rotation axis by a staggering eleven degrees, sending our planet spiraling into an uncertain future. The survival of humanity now rests on a desperate gamble - to detonate additional bombs with the hope of restoring the Earth's rotation axis. As the clock ticks down, will mankind's audacious plan save our world, or plunge it into irreversible doom? This is the gripping premise of "The Day the Earth Caught Fire", a cinematic journey that underscores humanity's resilience and the power of love amidst global disaster.

The Day the Earth Caught Fire is a drama movie featuring Janet Munro and directed by Val Guest.

The Day the Earth Caught Fire is currently streaming for free (ad-supported) on Kanopy and it's also available on Criterion Channel.

It is also possible to buy The Day the Earth Caught Fire on Kino Now or rent it on Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Microsoft Store and YouTube.