Emerald Fennell’s upcoming adaptation of *Wuthering Heights* is set to immerse audiences in a tempestuous romance, reminding us that the elements often play a crucial role in storytelling. This theme of nature’s impact on human emotion and action has been explored in various films, where characters grapple with environmental challenges that reflect their inner turmoil. Here, we take a look at ten memorable films that showcase the fierce relationship between humanity and the forces of nature.
The Elemental Connection in Cinema
Frozen: A Winter of Discontent
Disney’s *Frozen* brilliantly exemplifies the literary concept of pathetic fallacy, where the weather mirrors a character’s emotional state. The protagonist, Elsa, finds herself overwhelmed by anger, inadvertently unleashing a perpetual winter upon her kingdom. This act of frustration not only leads to a dramatic shift in her surroundings but also births the comical yet annoying snowman, Olaf, played by Josh Gad, whose antics are a stark contrast to the somber atmosphere.
The Shining: Isolation in the Snow
Stanley Kubrick’s *The Shining* vividly portrays the devastating effects of isolation compounded by harsh winter conditions. Jack Nicholson’s descent into madness is exacerbated by the snowbound confines of the Overlook Hotel, underscoring how the snowy landscape serves as a character in its own right. The film’s chilling atmosphere is intensified by the unforgiving weather, creating a claustrophobic experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
Blade Runner: A Drenched Dystopia
Ridley Scott’s *Blade Runner* is a hallmark of cinematic design, where the rain-soaked streets of a futuristic Los Angeles are almost as pivotal as the characters themselves. While the relentless downpour may not directly influence the plot, it contributes to a pervasive sense of despair and hopelessness that encapsulates the film’s bleak narrative. The constant drizzle serves as a backdrop to the struggles of humanity against an oppressive, industrialised world.
Force Majeure: The Weight of Choices
In *Force Majeure*, Ruben Östlund explores the psychological tensions that arise during a perceived catastrophe. When a man chooses to flee from an impending avalanche, the implications of his actions ripple through his family dynamics. The film delves into the complexities of human behaviour when faced with life-threatening situations, making for an unsettling yet thought-provoking watch.
Nature’s Fury in the Spotlight
The Revenant: A Battle Against the Elements
Leonardo DiCaprio’s Oscar-winning role in *The Revenant* showcases a relentless struggle against the natural world. Set in the unforgiving wilderness, the film captures the brutal realities of survival, with DiCaprio’s character facing freezing temperatures, torrential rain, and relentless attacks from nature itself. This visceral portrayal of man versus the elements serves as a testament to human resilience, albeit with a few touches of dark humour amidst the grueling trials.
Into the Wild: The Siren Call of Nature
Sean Penn’s *Into the Wild* tells the true story of Christopher McCandless, who ventures into the Alaskan wilderness seeking freedom but ultimately succumbs to the harsh realities of nature. The film serves as a poignant reminder of the dangers of romanticising the wilderness, as McCandless’s idealism leads to tragic consequences. It’s a beautifully shot tale that speaks to the allure and peril of nature.
The Day After Tomorrow: A Climate Wake-Up Call
Roland Emmerich’s *The Day After Tomorrow* epitomises the disaster genre, illustrating the catastrophic effects of climate change through a series of extreme weather events. From hurricanes to snowstorms, the film serves as a cautionary tale about humanity’s impact on the environment, urging viewers to reconsider their relationship with the planet. It’s a thrilling ride that blends entertainment with a vital message about our changing climate.
Why it Matters
The films that explore the intersection of human emotion and nature’s fury not only entertain but also provoke thought about our relationship with the environment. They serve as a mirror reflecting our vulnerabilities and the consequences of our actions. As we anticipate the release of *Wuthering Heights*, it’s clear that the elements will continue to shape narratives, reminding us that, in the grand theatre of life, nature remains an indomitable force.
