2. Badlands
Badlands was released in 1973 by the enigmatic Terrence Malick, whose films are characterised by the directors distinctive, obscure perspectives. Set in South Dakota in 1958, Badlands is an art film that deals with American youth and its many facets, such as boredom, popular culture, whirlwind romance, and rebellion. The story centres on two youths named Holly and Kit, played by Sissy Spacek and Martin Sheen, who are immediately attracted to one another upon their first encounter. Holly is an archetypal country girl, adorned in summer dresses and innocence, while Kit is a young tearaway who works various jobs, but cannot hold them down because of his insubordinate nature. Soon after they become acquainted, Kit murders Hollys father and entices her to follow him on a mass killing spree across the northern badlands, leaving a trail of blood-stained dust behind them. Badlands was Malicks debut motion picture, and although it received critical acclaim it didnt win any notable awards or generate that much revenue. Now, it has become one of many great films to be confined to the cobwebs of cinematic history, possibly because it lacks the blockbuster factor or the adulation reserved for award-winners. To symbolise the films importance, the Library of Congress selected Badlands for preservation, deeming it to be a significantly relevant work of art. In spite of this, it need not be tucked away unseen, as it is available to rent and buy if people wish to search for it. It is strongly recommended that they do just that.