The Hellstrom Chronicle (1971) Walon Green & Ed Spiegel

A scientist explains how the savagery and efficiency of the insect world could result in their taking over the world.

This unique and quirky offering combines elements of documentary films and horror movies to illustrate the potential threat posed by the world’s insects. With their collective intelligence, high capacity for work and sharp instincts, the film argues, they are waging a struggle against humans for supremacy of our planet. Expert cinematography captures footage of the small creatures, some quite tiny and elusive, interspersed with clips from horror films to achieve dramatic effects.

Professor Hellstrom, a famous entomologist, is so shaken by the savagery and ferocity of the predatory insect world that he films this “documentary” to warn mankind of its danger. Featuring stunning microphotography of a variety of insects and plants that include ultra close-ups of wars between ant colonies and a gigantic praying mantis practicing cannibalism. This unusual blend of horror film and nature study won an Academy Award for Best Documentary in 1972. It’s a fascinating movie and a nice companion piece to the cult classic Phase IV, which takes the next step from this film.

The Hellstrom Chronicle (1971)