This Day in History - “Soylent Green is people!”
50 years ago, on April 19, 1973, one of the darker SciFi movies of all time was released, Soylent Green.
Set in a dystopian future where the population has skyrocketed, natural resources have been depleted, and the world is plagued by poverty, pollution, and food shortages, Soylent Green is a classic science fiction film from 1973 that has inspired film and the RPG industry for years and is still relevant today.
The film follows the story of Detective Thorn (Charlton Heston), who is investigating the murder of a wealthy businessman. As he delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a sinister secret about the food source that is keeping the population alive: Soylent Green.
The film is a powerful commentary on the consequences of overpopulation, the depletion of natural resources, and the consequences of a society built on greed and exploitation. The performances by Charlton Heston and Edward G. Robinson (in his final film role) are outstanding, with Heston bringing a sense of grit and determination to his role as the detective, and Robinson giving a heartbreaking performance as a man nearing the end of his life.
The film's production design (while dated) is also impressive, depicting a bleak and oppressive world filled with crowds of people living in poverty and pollution.
Overall, "Soylent Green" is a powerful and thought-provoking film that still resonates. It's a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked growth, the importance of environmental conservation, and the outcomes of a have/have not society. It's a must-see for fans of science fiction and anyone interested in exploring the darker side of human nature. Check out the trailer below.
