Voyage to the Bottom of the Sea is a science fiction film prouced and directed by Irwin Allen. The film was released in 1961 by 20th Century Fox. The story was written by Irwin Allen and Charles Bennett. Walter Pidgeon starred as Admiral Harriman Nelson, with Robert Sterling as Captain Lee Crane. The original choice for the Crane role was David Hedison who later played the role in the TV series. However Hedison had turned the role down as he had just done The Lost World (1960 film) for Allen and wished other roles. The film had a supporting cast including Joan Fontaine, Barbara Eden, Michael Ansara and Peter Lorre. The theme song was sung by Frankie Avalon, who also appeared in the film.