Free Radicals (1958): cast, story & where to watch
1958 · Film · ★ 6.4
Released in 1958, Free Radicals is a notable film directed by Len Lye.
What it’s about. In this powerful abstract film with a soundtrack of African drum music, Lye scratched "white ziggle-zag-splutter scratches" on to black leader, using a variety of tools from saw teeth to arrow heads. The first version of the film won a major award at the International Experimental Film Festival Held in Brussels in 1958 in association with the World's Fair. Stan Brakhage described the film as "an almost unbelievably immense masterpiece".
How it landed. With an audience score of 6.4/10, Free Radicals has drawn a solid, mixed-to-positive response.
Where to watch. Streaming options change often. See the full, country-by-country breakdown on our where to watch Free Radicals page.
Frequently asked
- Where can I watch Free Radicals (1958)?
- Streaming, rental and purchase options for Free Radicals change frequently. Check our where-to-watch page for the latest availability in your country.
- Is Free Radicals worth watching?
- Free Radicals holds an audience score of 6.4 out of 10. Reactions are mixed, so it may depend on taste.
- When was Free Radicals released?
- Free Radicals was released in 1958.