The Revolutionary (1965 film)

The Revolutionary is a 1965 American drama film directed by Paul Williams. The film stars Jon Voight as a young, idealistic college student named only as "A" who becomes increasingly involved in radical political activism in the late 1960s. The story follows A's transformation from a bookish intellectual to a committed revolutionary, exploring his evolving beliefs, relationships, and the consequences of his choices.

The film depicts the growing unrest and anti-establishment sentiment prevalent on college campuses during the Vietnam War era. It portrays A's increasing disillusionment with traditional political channels and his eventual embrace of more extreme measures. His relationships with women, including his girlfriend Annie, are also explored as they struggle to reconcile their personal lives with their political convictions.

The Revolutionary is notable for its gritty realism and its portrayal of the complexities and contradictions within the burgeoning New Left movement. It is often regarded as a significant, albeit somewhat overlooked, cinematic reflection of the social and political turmoil of the 1960s. While not a commercial success upon its release, it has since gained a cult following and is appreciated for its raw and uncompromising portrayal of radicalization.