No Blade of Grass

No Blade of Grass, released in 1970, is a gripping post-apocalyptic science fiction drama directed by Cornel Wilde and starring notable actors like Nigel Davenport, Jean Wallace, and John Hamill. Based on John Christopher's 1956 novel "The Death of Grass," its narrative resonates with modern environmental concerns, making it a compelling watch even after five decades of its release.

The story in No Blade of Grass centers around the calamitous repercussions of an eco-crisis that annihilates the world's supplies of grass, thereby wreaking havoc on global food production and leading to widespread famine. The catastrophic event triggers social unrest, lawlessness, and survival struggles setting the stark, chilling backdrop for the narrative.

Nigel Davenport, known for his commanding screen presence, gives a powerful performance as the protagonist John Custance, a well-to-do architect based in London. When the crisis escalates, he decides to lead his family to safety through a treacherous journey to his brother's farm in Scotland, an area rumored to be secluded and fertile. His belief is that they can sustain themselves there until a solution emerges to save humanity from the impending doom.

Custance's wife Ann, played by Jean Wallace, meets the unforgiving circumstances alongside her husband, showing remarkable courage. Their son David Custance, portrayed by John Hamill, accompanies them in the arduous journey, providing a youthful perspective to the grim narrative.

As this small unit ventures into a world marked by escalating panic and anarchy, the movie portrays the gradual transformation of their characters. From a conventional urban-dwelling family, they turn into determined survivors, ready to go to any length to ensure their safety.

Under Wilde's astute direction, No Blade of Grass blends standard narrative cinema with documentary-style footage. The innovative editing jumps between the stark realities of the present and the nostalgic memories of the past, drawing a poignant contrast between the collapse of civilization and the world as they once knew it. These transitions underline the spectrum of human experiences as ordinary people suddenly find themselves in an extraordinary situation.

Impressively, the film was ahead of its time in terms of its core message. No Blade of Grass conveys a stark warning about the fragility of the environment and human society, both interconnected and dependent on each other. Several moments may leave you considering our current environmental challenges and the urgent need for the responsible stewardship of nature.

The cinematography by H.A.R. Thomson further reinforces the central themes. The desolate landscapes, tense close-ups, and carefully choreographed action sequences contribute to an overall mood of uneasiness and anticipation.

Meanwhile, the film's music, composed by Burnell Whibley, does not shy away from the themes of desperation and resignation. At certain critical points, traditional orchestral arrangements give way to noise and experimental sounds, echoing the chaos and unpredictability of the narrative.

No Blade of Grass is laudable for its relentlessly realistic take on a dystopian future brought about by ecological disaster, a topic few films dared to examine in the 1970s. While some may find the film's dark outlook unsettling, others may appreciate its brutally honest examination of human nature amidst survival struggles.

The performances of the cast, especially Davenport, Wallace, and Hamill, are commendably committed, helping the viewers to connect with the characters and their plight. Even though it's set against the grimmest of circumstances, No Blade of Grass presents relationship dynamics, ethical dilemmas, and character clashes, keeping the audience engaged with its evolving storyline.

As a whole, the film is a thought-provoking and visually engaging statement about global issues that are yet more relevant today than they were upon its release. It compels its viewers to ponder about the resilience of humanity, our relationship with the environment, and the ramifications of our actions. Whether you come for the powerful performances, the intriguing plot, or the movie's significant themes, No Blade of Grass guarantees an intense and memorable viewing experience.