Episode 458: Fahrenheit 451 (1966)

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One of the things that separates science fiction from any other genre is its ability to gaze into a crystal ball and attempt to predict what the future might be like if humanity continues on a certain path. This pairing is dedicated to science fiction films that looked into a darker future for humankind and, unfortunately, seem to have been uncomfortably prescient with their predictions, as evinced by the direction certain civilizations seem to be headed. First up, from the brilliant mind of author Ray Bradbury and the direction of acclaimed French director Francios Truffaut, is 1966's "Fahrenheit 451!" Set in an undetermined future, humanity has chosen to turn its back on the written word in favor of "equality for all." Newspapers have become pictograms, television is the primary form of learning (although it's completely controlled by the government), and firemen now have a different job: They locate and destroy (by burning) any books or other written materials found and confiscated by the authorities. The film follows Guy Montag (Oskar Werner). A fireman by profession, he is married to a drugged and brainwashed woman, Linda (Julie Christie) who is clearly unintelligent and passive. One day, on the way home from work, Montag meets Clarisse (also played by Julie Christie), who asks him if he has ever been tempted to read one of the books before he burns it, to see what the government is so afraid of. Thus begins Montag's awakening to the reality of his world and its mission. Also starring Cyril Cusack and Bee Duffell!

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