Soylent Green

Soylent Green

Year: 1973

Runtime: 97 min

Language: English

Director: Richard Fleischer

Sci-FiMysteryThrillerCrime

In a dystopian New York City where overpopulation and scarcity have reached catastrophic levels, detective Robert Thorn delves into the murder of a Soylent Corporation executive, only to find himself torn between duty and obsession. As he digs deeper, Thorn's pursuit of truth puts him at odds with powerful forces, leading him down a treacherous path of discovery and rebellion.

Warning: spoilers below!

Haven’t seen Soylent Green yet? This summary contains major spoilers. Bookmark the page, watch the movie, and come back for the full breakdown. If you're ready, scroll on and relive the story!

Timeline & Setting – Soylent Green (1973)
Explore the full timeline and setting of Soylent Green (1973). Follow every major event in chronological order and see how the environment shapes the story, characters, and dramatic tension.

Time period

2022

The year 2022 is characterized by severe climate change and resource depletion, leading to dire living conditions. With temperatures consistently above 90°F and an unemployment rate near 50%, society has fractured. This period reflects a grim future where humanity faces the fallout of environmental negligence and societal collapse.

Location

New York City

New York City in 2022 is a shadow of its former self, grappling with a staggering population of 40 million. The city suffers from extreme overcrowding, with streets filled with homeless individuals and dilapidated housing becoming commonplace. Once a symbol of vibrancy and opportunity, the city now presents a dystopian landscape marked by desperation and decay.

🏙️ City 🌆 Dystopia

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:23

Main Characters – Soylent Green (1973)
Meet the key characters of Soylent Green (1973), with detailed profiles, motivations, and roles in the plot. Understand their emotional journeys and what they reveal about the film’s deeper themes.

Robert Thorn (Charlton Heston)

Detective Robert Thorn is a hardened investigator striving to solve a high-profile murder amid societal chaos. He is resourceful and determined, often navigating ethical gray areas to seek justice. His character reflects a deep frustration with the corruption surrounding him and a relentless spirit in the fight against oppression.

👮 Detective 🔍 Investigator

Solomon 'Sol' Roth (Edward G. Robinson)

Sol Roth is an elderly former college professor and Thorn's roommate, offering wisdom and insight from a time of abundance. His nostalgic tales provide a stark contrast to the bleak world around him, embodying the loss of hope and knowledge. Roth's character adds emotional depth and complexity to the storyline.

📚 Wise 👴 Elderly

William R. Simonson (Joseph Cotten)

William R. Simonson is a wealthy lawyer whose mysterious murder serves as the catalyst for the story. His position in society and connections to the powerful reveal the dark underbelly of corruption that Thorn must confront. Simonson's character is pivotal in illustrating the disparity between wealth and the grim realities faced by the average citizen.

⚖️ Lawyer 💰 Wealthy

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:23

Major Themes – Soylent Green (1973)
Explore the central themes of Soylent Green (1973), from psychological, social, and emotional dimensions to philosophical messages. Understand what the film is really saying beneath the surface.

⚖️ Justice

The quest for truth and justice drives the narrative forward, as Detective Robert Thorn navigates a complex conspiracy. His determination to uncover the truth about the murder and the nefarious practices of the Soylent Corporation highlights the struggle against systemic corruption. The theme is emphasized through Thorn's relentless pursuit amidst societal decay and moral ambiguity.

🌍 Environmental Decline

The movie poignantly addresses the theme of environmental decline, showcasing the devastating impact of climate change and resource depletion. The oppressive heat and scarcity of food demonstrate the consequences of humanity's choices. This theme serves as a chilling warning about the future of the planet and the fragility of civilization.

🥺 Desperation

Desperation permeates the film as characters confront the harsh realities of survival in a collapsing society. The scarcity of food and the reliance on processed rations lead to violent riots, and the protagonist's struggle against overwhelming odds signifies the fight for dignity and truth. This theme evokes empathy and reflection on human resilience.

Last Updated: October 22, 2024 at 20:23

Similar Movies to Soylent Green
Discover movies like Soylent Green that share similar genres, themes, and storytelling elements. Whether you’re drawn to the atmosphere, character arcs, or plot structure, these curated recommendations will help you explore more films you’ll love.