In the 1950s, Harry Belafonte was among the few Black actors breaking through in Hollywood, along with Sidney Poitier. Opportunities were scarce, and the roles often reflected his race. Still, Belafonte shined in his performances, especially in the 1959 film The World, the Flesh and the Devil. This film was released at a time when Americans were worried about the threat of nuclear war and were becoming aware of the Civil Rights Movement. In it, Belafonte plays a character navigating a world destroyed by an atomic bomb.
Belafonte portrays Ralph Burton, a Pennsylvania mine inspector trapped after a collapse. After escaping, he discovers a post-apocalyptic New York City, eerily void of human life. Searching for survivors, he eventually finds a young white woman named Sarah Crandall, played by Inger Stevens, who survived by hiding in a bunker. As they attempt to rebuild their lives, tension arises with another survivor, Benson Thacker (Mel Ferrer), leading to jealousy and conflict.
Directed by Ranald MacDougall, this film serves as a stark reminder of the nuclear arms race’s dangers. It explores the theme of racial prejudice against a backdrop of societal collapse, which mirrors the struggles of the Civil Rights Movement. Unlike other films from that era, The World, the Flesh and the Devil uniquely addresses these issues by placing its characters in extreme circumstances where their differences must be confronted.
From their first encounter, it’s clear Ralph and Sarah share a deeper connection. Yet, Ralph’s fear of societal judgment keeps him from pursuing a relationship. Even with society’s collapse, he clings to ingrained bias, illustrating how difficult it can be to erase prejudices. Sarah’s comments about her privilege reveal her naivety regarding Ralph’s experiences, further complicating their bond.
Belafonte, a significant figure in the Civil Rights Movement, embodies Ralph’s struggles in a way that resonates. Instead of presenting him as an extraordinary character, the film portrays him as a regular man facing dire challenges. This realism helps emphasize the film’s powerful themes: everyone deserves equality, regardless of their situation. Belafonte’s role in this film paved the way for greater representation in Hollywood and echoed his life-long commitment to challenging injustice.
The World, the Flesh and the Devil is a thought-provoking film available on Prime Video for those interested in exploring these themes in depth.
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