- published: 29 Sep 2011
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Things to Come (1936) is a British science fiction film produced by Alexander Korda and directed by William Cameron Menzies. The screenplay was written by H. G. Wells and is a loose adaptation of his own 1933 novel The Shape of Things to Come and his 1931 non-fiction work, The Work, Wealth and Happiness of Mankind. The film stars Raymond Massey, Ralph Richardson, Cedric Hardwicke, Pearl Argyle and Margaretta Scott.
The cultural historian Christopher Frayling calls Things to Come "a landmark in cinematic design."
Things to Come sets out a future history from 1940 to 2036. It is set in the fictional British city of 'Everytown'. Successful businessman John Cabal (Raymond Massey) cannot enjoy Christmas Day, 1940, with the ominous news of possible war. His guest Harding (Maurice Braddell) shares his worries, but over-optimistic friend Passworthy (Edward Chapman) believes it will not come to pass, or even if it does, it will do good by accelerating technological progress. A bombing raid on the city that night results in general mobilization and global war.
Along the roads I've travelled on
I have never reached the end
Alone in life for centuries
Or so to me it seems
A love was lost some miles ago
But the word will take her place
I've looked perfection in the eyes
And our features were not the same
Ou your shoulders, resting on them
The stones of years has set
Now your learning, no un-turning
A selfless life to live
What has been and things to come
I thought mine eyes had seen it all
Salvation's sway has brought me here
And now I see it all clear
Turn to me with all your pain
And I'll show you love is real
Cast away the stone of years
And leave this past behind
Screams arise from the turmoil of the past
Night descend
Another day has gone and died
The time has come
For all of us to tell a friend
Father promises us shelter