The Roots of Heaven 1958
"Of human laughter, wonder and tenderness !"
John Huston's sweeping adventure-drama *The Roots of Heaven (1958)* transports viewers to the rugged landscapes of French Equatorial Africa, where an impassioned conservationist takes a stand for the African elephant.
Director: John Huston
Cast
Errol Flynn
Forsythe
Trevor Howard
Morel
Eddie Albert
Abe Fields
Juliette Gréco
Minna
Orson Welles
Cy Sedgewick
Paul Lukas
Saint Denis
Herbert Lom
Orsini
Edric Connor
Waitari
Grégoire Aslan
Habib
André Luguet
Governor
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Roots of Heaven (1958) about?
The film follows a determined conservationist in French Equatorial Africa who launches a bold campaign to save the African elephant from extinction. His vision inspires a diverse group of followers, including a disillusioned soldier, a lively Parisian nightclub performer, and an American journalist eager to expose the truth. However, the movement also attracts foes, from an ivory hunter torn between morality and greed to a bureaucrat determined to crush the rebellion.
Who directed The Roots of Heaven?
The film was directed by the legendary John Huston, a master of cinematic storytelling known for his ability to blend adventure, drama, and deep human themes.
Who stars in The Roots of Heaven?
The standout cast includes Errol Flynn as the idealistic conservationist, Trevor Howard as the weary ex-soldier, Eddie Albert as the tenacious American journalist, and Juliette Gréco as the magnetic nightclub hostess.
Is The Roots of Heaven (1958) worth watching?
With its gripping blend of adventure and drama, *The Roots of Heaven (1958)* is a compelling watch for fans of classic cinema and themes of environmental activism. While it doesn't boast a modern IMDb rating, Huston's direction and the film's ambitious scope make it a rewarding experience for those who appreciate rich character studies and sweeping narratives.
How long is The Roots of Heaven?
The film runs for a total of 121 minutes, or just over two hours.
About The Roots of Heaven (1958) — John Huston's Epic Call to Save Africa's Elephants
John Huston's sweeping adventure-drama *The Roots of Heaven (1958)* transports viewers to the rugged landscapes of French Equatorial Africa, where an impassioned conservationist takes a stand for the African elephant. His crusade to protect these majestic creatures draws together an unlikely coalition of allies: a world-weary ex-soldier seeking purpose, a charismatic nightclub hostess who finds her heart in the wild, and a sharp-witted American reporter documenting the struggle. Alongside them are figures with far less noble motives, including a ruthless ivory hunter torn between profit and principle, and a government aide determined to silence the movement. Together, they paint a portrait of idealism clashing with harsh reality, all set against a backdrop of untamed beauty and untold hardship.
The film pulses with Huston's signature blend of drama and adventure, exploring themes of environmental stewardship, human ambition, and the fragile balance between civilization and nature. With its richly drawn characters and sweeping vistas, *The Roots of Heaven (1958)* is a timeless call to action that resonates just as powerfully today as it did over six decades ago.
