This British science fiction epic, adapted from H.G. Wells’ writings, presents a speculative history of mankind from 1940 to 2036. Beginning with the outbreak of a catastrophic global war, it depicts the collapse of civilization, the rise of barbarism, and the eventual rebuilding of society under a rational, technologically driven world order. The film explores themes of war, progress, utopia, and humanity’s eternal struggle between destruction and enlightenment.
Genre: Science Fiction, Futurist Drama
Director: William Cameron Menzies
William Cameron Menzies (1896–1957) was an American film director, production designer, and art director, renowned for his pioneering visual style and innovative use of cinematic space. He was the first to receive the title of “production designer” and won an Academy Award for his art direction on The Dove (1927). Menzies directed a handful of films, but his reputation largely rests on his visionary design work for classics such as Gone with the Wind (1939). Things to Come stands as his most ambitious directorial project.
Star Cast:
- Raymond Massey as John Cabal / Oswald Cabal
- Edward Chapman as Pippa Passworthy / Raymond Passworthy
- Ralph Richardson as The Boss
- Margaretta Scott as Roxana / Rowena
- Cedric Hardwicke as Theotocopulos
- Maurice Braddell as Dr. Harding
On its release, the film generated considerable attention for its ambitious scope and futuristic vision. While critics admired the bold ideas and striking design, some found the narrative heavy-handed and overly didactic. Over time, it has been recognized as a landmark in cinematic science fiction for its scale, production design, and prescient themes.
Fun Facts:
- The script was written by H.G. Wells himself, who took an unusually active role in shaping the film’s message and tone.
- The production design, led by Menzies, created a visually striking vision of future cities, influencing the look of later science fiction films.
- Alexander Korda produced the film with London Film Productions, sparing no expense to achieve its epic scale.
- The movie’s depiction of a devastating global war eerily anticipated World War II, which began just three years after the film’s release.
- Composer Arthur Bliss wrote an original score, which was later adapted into a concert suite, further cementing the film’s cultural impact.
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