THINGS TO COME

Cinemavixion Review

William Cameron Menzies's "Things to Come" remains a remarkably prescient and visually ambitious science fiction epic, even decades after its 1936 release. Adapted from H.G. Wells' own novel, the film charts a sweeping, multi-generational saga from the brink of global conflict in 1940 through societal collapse, plague, and eventual reconstruction. The narrative, which extends to a future where humanity resides in underground cities and contemplates lunar travel, offers a stark warning about the cyclical nature of progress and destruction. Menzies, a renowned production designer, imbues the film with a distinct visual style, creating a believable and often chilling vision of a future shaped by war and its aftermath. The performances, particularly from Raymond Massey, anchor the grand narrative with human gravitas. While its pacing and thematic scope might feel dense to modern audiences, "Things to Come" stands as a foundational work in cinematic futurism, lauded for its imaginative scope and enduring philosophical questions. Its critical reception, highlighted by a 91% score on Rotten Tomatoes, underscores its lasting impact on the genre.