The China Syndrome movie poster

The China Syndrome

1979 · 2h 2m · Released

PG Drama, Thriller

While doing a series of reports on alternative energy sources, opportunistic reporter Kimberly Wells witnesses an accident at a nuclear power plant. Wells is determined to publicize the incident, but soon finds herself entangled in a sinister conspiracy to keep the full impact of the incident a secret.

7.1 The Movie Database

Where to stream The China Syndrome

Streaming now in the United States on Amazon Prime Video, Fawesome, and The Roku Channel.

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Rent or buy in the United States on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home.

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Trailers and promos

The China Syndrome (1979) ORIGINAL TRAILER [HD 1080p]
The China Syndrome 1979 TV trailer #2
ABC The China Syndrome 1983 Sunday Night Movie bumper

Top cast and crew

James Bridges Director
Jane Fonda Kimberly Wells
Michael Douglas Richard Adams
Jack Lemmon Jack Godell
Scott Brady Herman De Young
James Hampton Bill Gibson
Peter Donat Don Jacovich
Wilford Brimley Ted Spindler
Richard Herd Evan McCormack
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Frequently asked questions about The China Syndrome

Where can I watch The China Syndrome in the United States?

The China Syndrome is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video, Fawesome, and The Roku Channel in the United States, and to rent or buy on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, YouTube, and Fandango At Home. Streaming availability is provided by JustWatch and can change over time.

Is The China Syndrome on Amazon Prime Video?

Yes. The China Syndrome is streaming on Amazon Prime Video in the United States, alongside Fawesome and The Roku Channel.

Can I watch The China Syndrome for free?

The China Syndrome streams free with ads in the United States on Fawesome and The Roku Channel. A subscription is not required, though the service may ask you to register.

What are the ratings for The China Syndrome?

The China Syndrome scores 7.1 on The Movie Database.

Who stars in The China Syndrome?

The China Syndrome stars Jane Fonda, Michael Douglas, Jack Lemmon, Scott Brady, and James Hampton. James Bridges is the director.

How long is The China Syndrome?

The China Syndrome runs 2h 2m (122 minutes).

When did The China Syndrome come out?

The China Syndrome was released on March 16, 1979.

Which studio made The China Syndrome?

The China Syndrome was produced by Columbia Pictures and IPC Films in the United States.

What was the budget for The China Syndrome?

The China Syndrome was made on a budget of $5,900,000.

How much did The China Syndrome make at the box office?

The China Syndrome grossed $51,718,367 worldwide, against a budget of $5,900,000.

Ratings and metadata from The Movie Database (TMDB), streaming data from JustWatch. This product uses the TMDB API but is not endorsed or certified by TMDB. Streaming availability checked October 2026.

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