Free Movie Friday: Prophecy

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In the mood for a free movie? I have one I recommend and it might just scare the living daylights out of you! Like most of the free movies I watch, this one is found in the Paramount Vault at YouTube.

Remember Prophecy? It was a terrifying horror film from 1979 that had a strong, environmental message. I saw this at the tender age of eight and I often wonder if I’m still scarred. (In my parents’ defense, they didn’t know what we were getting into when they bought the tickets.) Since it made such an impression upon me, I’ve always wanted to give Prophecy another look. I was pleased to find it in the Paramount Vault. This is the movie company’s YouTube channel where many of its classics and newer releases are offered for free.

Prophecy’s plot centers upon an Environmental Protection Agency worker (Robert Foxworth) and his wife (Talia Shire) researching a paper mill in a rural Maine town. Unbeknownst to them, the paper mill releases mercury and other toxic chemicals into the river. These chemicals cause local animals to grow to enormous sizes and become aggressive. The biggest threat is a gigantic, hideously-mutated bear. This deformed monstrosity tears through paper mill workers, members of the local Native American tribe, and one unfortunate family who were camping in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Needless to say, Foxworth’s character is hip to the paper mill’s shenanigans. They have some help from members of the local Native American tribe, including a character played by Armand Assante. Together, they discover that the revoltingly-deformed bear is responsible for all the gruesome killings. The film culminates with this ragtag group confronting the monstrous beast with rather interesting if not disparate results.

Fair warning: Prophecy is a gruesome movie. One of the bear’s attacks – when it slaughters a family of three – was particularly scarring to my eight-year-old mind. In fact, people still discuss the infamous “sleeping bag scene” scene on various online film forums. Viewers seem to be divided into two camps: those who are disturbed by it, and those who find it comical. Watch Prophecy and decide for yourself.

Need a free movie to enjoy this Friday? Prophecy is one of many free movies on Paramount’s YouTube channel. But keep in mind, this R-rated horror film is not for the squeamish. The hairless, scarred mutant bear is a repulsive sight, and what it does to its victims is even worse! But if you’re a fan of late-70s horror films – or just want to exercise your id – then Prophecy is for you. Best of all, this 102-minute fear fest is absolutely free!

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Want free movies on YouTube? Check out the free films available in the Paramount Vault. You’re sure to find something you’ll enjoy!

About the Author

Jake Buckler
Jake Buckler is a cord-cutter, consumer electronics geek, and Celtic folk music fan. Those qualities, and his writing experience, helped him land a copywriting gig at Signal Group, LLC. He also contributes to The Solid Signal Blog.