Badlands
Badlands

Movie spotlight

Badlands

1974
Movie
94 min
English

An impressionable teenage girl from a dead-end town and her older greaser boyfriend embark on a killing spree in the South Dakota badlands.

Insights

IMDb7.9/10
Rotten Tomatoes93%
Metacritic83/100
Google Users94%
Director: Terrence MalickGenres: Crime, Drama, Romance

Plot Summary

In 1950s South Dakota, Holly Sargis's father disapproves of her relationship with Kit Carruthers, a James Dean-esque drifter. Following her father's death, Holly and Kit embark on a cross-country spree of petty crime and murder, becoming unlikely folk heroes as their actions escalate. Their destructive journey through the American landscape becomes a dark and poetic commentary on societal disillusionment and fleeting fame.

Critical Reception

Terrence Malick's directorial debut, Badlands, was critically acclaimed for its unique blend of lyrical visual style, detached yet compelling narrative, and the striking performances of its leads. It is widely regarded as a landmark film of the New Hollywood era, praised for its innovative approach to the crime genre and its exploration of alienation and the American dream.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its stunning cinematography and lyrical storytelling.

  • Commended for the captivating performances of Martin Sheen and Sissy Spacek.

  • Seen as a poignant and unsettling exploration of youthful rebellion and violence.

Google audience: Audiences particularly admire the film's unique visual style and atmospheric storytelling, often highlighting the standout performances by the lead actors. The movie is frequently cited for its thought-provoking themes and enduring impact.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for the Golden Globe Award for Most Promising Newcomer – Male (Martin Sheen).

Fun Fact

Terrence Malick, known for his reclusiveness, makes a brief uncredited appearance in the film as a bounty hunter.

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My Review

TMDB Reviews

1 reviews
John Chard

John Chard

Little did I realise that what began in the alleys and back ways of this quiet town would end in the Badlands of Montana. Badlands is written and directed by Terrence Malick. It stars Martin Sheen, Sissy Spacek, Ramon Bieri and Warren Oa...