Change of Mind

Change of Mind is a gripping science fiction drama from 1969, providing thought-provoking commentary on race, identity, and societal prejudice. The film boasts commendable performances from stars Raymond St. Jacques, Susan Oliver, and Janet MacLachlan. Crafted by director Robert Stevens, this film ensures an intellectual and emotional rollercoaster ride right from the start.

Raymond St. Jacques delivers an impressive performance as David Rowe, an attorney who finds himself at the sharp end of a groundbreaking medical experiment. After being killed in a car accident, David's brain is transplanted into the body of a white businessman, played by Roger Perry. Just when David thinks his life couldn't get any more complicated, he grapples with the reality of experiencing the world from a decidedly different racial perspective. The charismatic St. Jacques expertly juggles the complexity and authenticity of his character's experience.

Equally laudable is Susan Oliver's portrayal of Karen, David's wife. She brings depth to her role, as a woman challenged by intense emotional turmoil. Love for her husband pushes her to accept the dramatic change, despite the society's opinions and her own initial reservations. The connection and interaction between Karen and David form a substantial part of the movie's emotional core and serve as a catalyst for addressing deeper societal issues.

Janet MacLachlan shines as Peggy, a civil rights activist and a close friend to David. With her character, the film offers an inside perspective of the Civil Rights Movement, a poignant subplot that adds richness and context to the main narrative. MacLachlan's compelling performance and the dynamism of her character further highlight the racial tensions of the era.

Change of Mind does more than just roll out a unique science fiction plot; it dives deep into issues that continue to resonate socially and politically. The narrative cleverly takes us through David's personal struggle as he navigates his strange, new reality. His transition introduces him to a new social standing and privileges he was oblivious to before. These circumstances force him to examine his identity, reevaluate his values, and reconsider his assumptions about racial prejudice.

Meanwhile, the film invites viewers to ponder over ethical issues surrounding the possibilities of scientific advancements. It explores the moral boundaries that could be pushed or crossed as we continually strive to innovate and extend human life. Change of Mind is a precursor to many philosophical discussions that can be seen in later science fiction works, making it a pioneer of its genre in many respects.

The film also does a commendable job at sketching out the racial landscape of its time. It uses its unique premise to underscore the racial disparities of the era as viewed through the lens of its protagonist. As a black man's consciousness in a white man's body, the film's lead is subjected to a jarring shift in societal response that ranges from the overtly positive to the disturbingly negative.

A brooding score by Les Baxter grants the movie an eerie, unsettling backdrop, adding to the overall impact of the narrative. Coupled with solid cinematography that accentuates the stark contrasts and mood of the movie, Change of Mind embodies the quintessential style of late 60's cinematography.

In conclusion, Change of Mind is a compelling journey into issues of identity, race, science, and society. By couching these elements in a science fiction plot, the backbone of the movie isn't merely its inventive story, but the thought-provoking implications it carries. It's a film that succeeds in being not just a science fiction mystery but a dramatic reflection on societal norms, making it an intriguing viewing experience that remains relevant to this day.