Man vs. Nature, Man vs. Himself
In this week’s Two of a Grind, we are featuring two films with a message. In one, nature fights back after years of attacks from humanity. In another, humanity’s greatest enemy is humanity.
Frogs is a 1972 eco-horror film in which the very ecology that we’ve been trouncing on for centuries attacks back. While it’s relatively tame with a PG rating, it’s got a that exploitation feel. Cheesy with some pacing issues here and there, its not going to win an Oscar (then again, all the stars are white so it has a fighting chance), but it’s well worth a watch at barely 90 minutes including credits. If for no other reason, seeing the dreamy, young Sam Elliot is enough reason for me.
A Clockwork Orange is one of my all time favorite films. It has a few scenes that are difficult to watch, but it packs some seriously biting social commentary. When does a choice cease to be a choice? Does everyone deserve their ability to exercise free will? Is it okay for the powers to use inhumane practices on inhumane people? Does everyone deserve a chance to show that they can change? … so many questions. This one is a real classic and for good reason. Expect a long form piece on this film in the coming month, but for now, for check it out yourself.
Remember that these films can be viewed free on your ROKU, but for just a few bucks you get them commercial free and can watch via your laptop or phone as well.
And, remember to keep grindin’.