The Shape of Things to Come Directed by William Cameron Menzies

Description

In 1940, businessman John Cabal struggles to enjoy Christmas as the threat of war looms over Everytown, leading him to become a Royal Air Force pilot after a devastating bombing raid. As the war drags on into the 1960s, society collapses into a dark age marked by hyperinflation and a deadly plague that wipes out half of humanity. By 1970, warlord Rudolf, the "Boss" of Everytown, rejects Cabal's offer to join the peace-seeking organization "Wings Over the World," but is ultimately overthrown when they use a "Gas of Peace" to take control. Under Cabal's leadership, civilization is rebuilt by 2036, but tensions rise as the populace demands a break from progress, culminating in a debate about humanity's future as Cabal prepares for the first crewed flight to the Moon.


Colorized version: https://youtu.be/iwTDqHrJ4vc


Director: William Cameron Menzies
Writer: H.G. Wells
Stars: Raymond Massey, Edward Chapman, Ralph Richardson
Genres: Drama, Literary, Sci-Fi, War


0:00 Full movie with subtitles
5:21 Cabal warns of impending war as tensions rise across the globe.
14:40 Aerial bombings devastate Everytown, plunging society into chaos.
28:33 The plague spreads, and the ruthless "Boss" seizes control of Everytown.
36:01 John Cabal arrives, declaring the end of war and the rise of order.
55:02 Cabal's forces unleash "Gas of Peace" to overthrow the Boss's regime.
1:14:31 Humanity unites under science, preparing for the first moon launch.
1:26:00 Cabal reflects on humanity's endless pursuit of progress and the stars.


Themes:
Humanity’s Struggles: A central theme is the conflict between those embracing progress and those clinging to outdated traditions or chaos.
Optimism in Science: The movie promotes the idea that scientific progress is essential for humanity's survival.
Visual Innovation: The futuristic cityscapes and grand sets were groundbreaking, influencing sci-fi cinema for decades.


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