Alas, Babylon (1960): cast, story & where to watch

1960 · Film · ★ 6

Alas, Babylon poster

Released in 1960, Alas, Babylon is a thriller and tv movie film directed by Robert Stevens, running about 90 minutes.

What it’s about. The Playhouse 90 teleplay of “Alas, Babylon” unflinchingly portrays the tragic aftermath of a major nuclear conflict with the U.S.S.R, including scenes featuring a child being rendered blind from a violent bomb flash and a character severely disfigured by radiation burns.  Narrated in flashback with solemn resignation by noir veteran Dana Andrews, who announces in the play’s first lines that he is already dead (à la Sunset Boulevard), the controversial drama was both lauded and criticized for its grim, daringly honest exploration of a scenario in which “92 percent of the world’s people were killed.”

Who’s in it. Alas, Babylon stars Dana Andrews as Mark Bragg, Judith Evelyn as Lavinia, Robert Crawford Jr. as Richard and Gina Gillespie as Laura, among others.

How it landed. With an audience score of 6.0/10, Alas, Babylon has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.

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

If you liked it. Fans of Alas, Babylon tend to enjoy The Dark Knight, Pulp Fiction, Parasite and Fight Club.

Frequently asked

Where can I watch Alas, Babylon (1960)?
Streaming, rental and purchase options for Alas, Babylon change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
Is Alas, Babylon worth watching?
Alas, Babylon holds an audience score of 6.0 out of 10, and is a strong pick if you enjoy thriller and tv movie. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
Who stars in Alas, Babylon?
Alas, Babylon stars Dana Andrews, Judith Evelyn, Robert Crawford Jr., Gina Gillespie and Don Gordon.
When was Alas, Babylon released?
Alas, Babylon was released in 1960, with a runtime of about 90 minutes.