Watch The Man Who Saw Tomorrow
- PG
- 1981
- 1 hr 30 min
-
6.0 (1,255)
The Man Who Saw Tomorrow is a 1981 documentary film featuring Orson Welles as the narrator. The film explores the astrological predictions of French physician and astrologer Nostradamus, who lived in the 16th century, and his prophecies on the future of the world. The documentary begins with a brief history of Nostradamus, his writings, and his influence on the world of astrology. Welles, who provides a dramatic and theatrical narration, then introduces a series of interviews with modern-day experts on Nostradamus and his predictions.
The film is structured around ten chapters, each focusing on a specific prediction made by Nostradamus. These predictions range from natural disasters, such as earthquakes, to political events like the assassination of US President John F. Kennedy, and even the end of the world.
Throughout the documentary, viewers are presented with a series of reenactments depicting the events that Nostradamus predicted, as well as archival footage of historical events. The reenactments are often accompanied by ominous music and dramatic narration by Welles, lending a sense of gravitas and suspense to the proceedings.
One of the most intriguing parts of The Man Who Saw Tomorrow is its exploration of Nostradamus's use of code and cryptic language in his predictions. The film presents a number of experts who have spent years interpreting Nostradamus's writings, and who claim to have unlocked secrets hidden within them.
Another interesting aspect of the film is its examination of the many interpretations of Nostradamus's predictions. Experts interviewed in the film offer a range of opinions on what Nostradamus really meant in some of his more enigmatic passages, leading to a fascinating discussion of the limits of prophecy and interpretation.
Despite the film's heavy reliance on reenactments, it manages to avoid feeling too cheesy or over-the-top. This is largely due to Welles's commanding presence as narrator - his rich, sonorous voice adds a sense of weight to the proceedings, and his understated delivery helps keep things on the right side of campy.
Overall, The Man Who Saw Tomorrow is a fascinating and entertaining exploration of the world of Nostradamus and his prophecies. Though some viewers may be skeptical of the accuracy or validity of Nostradamus's predictions, the film succeeds in making his work seem relevant and intriguing even today.