Soylent Green (1973) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Introduction
“Soylent Green,” directed by Richard Fleischer and released in 1973, is a dystopian science fiction film that has garnered a lasting reputation for its thought-provoking narrative and iconic twist ending. Starring Charlton Heston, Leigh Taylor-Young, and Edward G. Robinson, the film offers a chilling vision of a future ravaged by overpopulation and environmental collapse. With its grim portrayal of a future society and its impactful social commentary, “Soylent Green” remains a classic of the genre. This review will explore the film’s key aspects and provide information on where to watch it online.
Plot Summary
Set in a dystopian future year of 2022, “Soylent Green” depicts a world plagued by severe overpopulation, environmental degradation, and severe resource scarcity. The film follows Detective Thorn (Charlton Heston) as he investigates the murder of a wealthy executive, which leads him to uncover a disturbing truth about the government’s food production system.
The central mystery revolves around the food product known as Soylent Green, a staple in the diet of the overpopulated world. As Thorn delves deeper into the investigation, he discovers the shocking secret behind the source of Soylent Green, which serves as a critical commentary on the consequences of unchecked environmental exploitation and societal collapse.
Performances
The film features strong performances from its cast:
- Charlton Heston as Detective Thorn: Heston delivers a compelling performance as the determined and morally driven detective. His portrayal of Thorn captures the character’s growing sense of unease and his pursuit of justice in a world of corruption and deception.
- Leigh Taylor-Young as Shirl: Taylor-Young’s role as Thorn’s love interest adds an emotional layer to the film. Her performance highlights the personal and societal struggles faced by individuals in the dystopian world.
- Edward G. Robinson as Sol Roth: Robinson, in his final film role, provides a memorable and poignant performance as Thorn’s elderly research partner. His character’s wisdom and tragic fate add significant depth to the film’s exploration of its themes.
Direction and Cinematography
Richard Fleischer’s direction of “Soylent Green” is characterized by its stark portrayal of a bleak and deteriorating future. Fleischer effectively captures the film’s dystopian atmosphere and the pervasive sense of despair that defines its world. His direction emphasizes the film’s social and environmental commentary while maintaining a suspenseful and engaging narrative.
The cinematography, handled by Richard H. Kline, complements Fleischer’s direction with its gritty and evocative visual style. The film’s depiction of a decaying urban landscape and the contrasting opulence of the wealthy elite enhances its thematic concerns. The use of practical effects and set design contributes to the film’s immersive and unsettling portrayal of the future.
Themes and Atmosphere
“Soylent Green” explores themes of environmental degradation, overpopulation, and the ethical implications of technological and scientific advancements. The film offers a critical commentary on the consequences of humanity’s exploitation of natural resources and the societal impact of an unsustainable future.
The atmosphere of the film is one of grim realism and pervasive dread. The narrative’s exploration of the dark side of human ingenuity and the collapse of societal structures creates a powerful and thought-provoking viewing experience. The film’s iconic twist ending serves as a powerful and unforgettable conclusion to its dystopian narrative.
Critical Reception
Upon its release, “Soylent Green” received positive reviews from critics, who praised its engaging plot, strong performances, and effective social commentary. The film’s depiction of a future world plagued by environmental and societal collapse was noted for its relevance and impact.
The film has since become a classic of the science fiction genre, with its twist ending and thematic concerns continuing to resonate with audiences. Its influence is evident in subsequent dystopian and environmental-themed films, solidifying its place in cinematic history.
Where to Watch Soylent Green (1973) Online
If you’re interested in watching “Soylent Green,” here are some streaming services and platforms where it is available, particularly in the United States:
- Amazon Prime Video
- Availability: “Soylent Green” is available for rental or purchase on Amazon Prime Video. Rental prices typically range from $3.99 to $4.99, while purchasing the film may cost between $9.99 and $14.99.
- Apple TV
- Availability: The film can be rented or purchased on Apple TV. Rental prices are usually around $3.99, with purchase options ranging from $9.99 to $14.99.
- Google Play Movies & TV
- Availability: “Soylent Green” is available for rent or purchase on Google Play Movies & TV. This platform provides flexibility for viewing on various devices.
- YouTube Movies
- Availability: The film can be rented or purchased on YouTube Movies, offering another option for accessing the film on a range of devices.
- Vudu
- Availability: Vudu offers the option to rent or buy “Soylent Green.” Known for its high-quality streaming, Vudu is a good choice for watching the film on demand.
- Hulu
- Availability: The film is not currently available on Hulu but may appear on other streaming platforms or for rental/purchase.
Conclusion
“Soylent Green” (1973) is a classic dystopian film that provides a chilling and thought-provoking exploration of environmental and societal issues. With its strong performances, impactful social commentary, and iconic twist ending, the film remains a significant entry in the science fiction genre.
Call to Action
Ready to explore the unsettling world of “Soylent Green”? Stream or rent the film on your preferred platform today and experience this classic dystopian thriller. Discover the gripping narrative and powerful commentary that have made “Soylent Green” a timeless and influential film.
