Operation Sandman (2000): cast, story & where to watch

Released in 2000, Operation Sandman is an action, drama and science fiction film directed by Nelson McCormick, running about 91 minutes. “The worst war to fight is in your own mind” — that tagline sets the tone.

What it’s about. In the heat of an American desert, Captain Jean Farrell arrives at a secret military installation, run by the enigmatic Doctor Harlan Jessup. Jessup is conducting 'Operation Sandman', an experiment involving a group of soldiers who have volunteered to be injected with 'the Juice', a drug which enables them to function without sleep. The team of soldiers, led by gruff and abusive 'Gunny' Riggins continually takes part in Virtual Reality scenarios whereby they face terrorists, kidnappers, guerrillas and a plethora of other situations that demand split-second timing, and undying obedience in the face of danger.

Who’s in it. Operation Sandman stars Ron Perlman as Dr. Harlan Jessup, Rod Biermann as Kazinski, Robert Howard as Sturner and Bob Howard as Sturner, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 5.0/10, Operation Sandman has proved divisive with audiences.

Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Operation Sandman page.

If you liked it. Fans of Operation Sandman 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.