This Was Man: An Epic Adventure into the Heart of Human History

Released in 1971, "This Was Man" is a groundbreaking documentary film that takes viewers on an epic journey through human history. Directed by Haskell Wexler and produced by Sol Goldberg, the film was a collaborative effort involving a team of renowned anthropologists, including Margaret Mead and Gregory Bateson.

This Was a Man: The Final Volume of The Clifton Chronicles

by Jeffrey Archer

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4544 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	416 pages
Item Weight	:	6 ounces
Dimensions	:	4.02 x 0.67 x 6.73 inches

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The film's title, "This Was Man," is an allusion to a line from T.S. Eliot's poem "The Waste Land": "This was the way the world ended, this was the way the world ended." The film's creators intended to convey a sense of urgency and the importance of understanding our past in order to shape our future.

The film opens with a stunning aerial shot of the Earth, followed by a montage of images from different cultures and time periods. This sets the stage for a sweeping narrative that explores the evolution of human beings from our earliest hominid ancestors to the present day.

One of the most striking things about "This Was Man" is its use of visual storytelling. The film is beautifully shot, with stunning cinematography and editing that create a truly immersive experience for viewers. The film's use of slow motion and time-lapse photography is particularly effective in conveying the vastness of human history and the interconnectedness of all cultures.

The film's soundtrack is another important element that contributes to its impact. The score, composed by Leonard Rosenman, is both haunting and evocative, and it perfectly complements the film's visuals. The use of sound effects is also masterful, creating a sense of presence and immediacy for viewers.

In addition to its visual and sonic beauty, "This Was Man" is also a remarkably informative and thought-provoking film. The film's anthropological insights are presented in a clear and accessible way, making it a valuable resource for students and scholars alike.

One of the most important themes explored in "This Was Man" is the diversity of human cultures. The film shows how different cultures have developed unique ways of life, art, and religion. This diversity is celebrated in the film, and it serves as a reminder of the richness and complexity of the human experience.

Another important theme explored in the film is the impact of technology on human society. The film shows how technology has both helped and harmed humanity, and it raises important questions about the future of our species. These questions are still relevant today, and they continue to challenge us to think deeply about the implications of our technological choices.

"This Was Man" is a truly epic film that deserves to be seen by everyone. It is a film that will stay with you long after you watch it, and it will challenge you to think about the meaning of human history and the future of our species.

Historical Significance

"This Was Man" was released at a time of great social and political upheaval. The Vietnam War was raging, and the civil rights movement was at its peak. The film's message of peace and understanding was a welcome antidote to the violence and division that was taking place in the world.

The film was also groundbreaking in terms of its use of visual storytelling. Wexler and Goldberg were pioneers in the use of cinéma vérité, a documentary style that emphasizes authenticity and immediacy. The film's use of slow motion and time-lapse photography was also innovative, and it helped to create a sense of wonder and awe for viewers.

The film's anthropological insights were also groundbreaking. Mead and Bateson were two of the most respected anthropologists of their time, and their work on the film helped to popularize the field of cultural anthropology. The film's insights into the diversity of human cultures and the impact of technology on society are still relevant today.

"This Was Man" was a critical and commercial success. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature, and it won the Golden Globe Award for Best Documentary Film. The film has been praised by critics and scholars alike for its stunning visuals, its thought-provoking insights, and its enduring impact on our understanding of human history.

Enduring Impact

"This Was Man" continues to be an important film today. It is used in classrooms around the world to teach students about human evolution, cultural anthropology, and the history of filmmaking. The film's message of peace and understanding is also still relevant today, and it is a reminder of the importance of working together to build a better future for all.

In 2019, the film was selected by the Library of Congress for preservation in the National Film Registry. This is a testament to the film's cultural and historical significance, and it ensures that it will continue to be available for future generations to enjoy.

"This Was Man" is a truly epic film that deserves to be seen by everyone. It is a film that will stay with you long after you watch it, and it will challenge you to think about the meaning of human history and the future of our species.

The film is a testament to the power of visual storytelling, and it is a reminder of the importance of understanding our past in order to shape our future. "This Was Man" is a film that will continue to inspire and challenge viewers for years to come.

This Was a Man: The Final Volume of The Clifton Chronicles

by Jeffrey Archer

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4544 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	416 pages
Item Weight	:	6 ounces
Dimensions	:	4.02 x 0.67 x 6.73 inches

FREE