Climate Radicalization and The Human Cost of Ecological Collapse in Paul Schrader’s First Reformed

Abstract

This paper examines Paul Schrader’s First Reformed (2017) as a narrative of climate radicalization and the human cost of ecological collapse. The story follows characters Michael, Mary, and Toller, who struggle with emotional trauma of climate change. The film suggests that climate change is not only a scientific issue but also a psychological one that leads to distress for individuals and communities. The study employs qualitative textual and cinematic analysis using theoretical frameworks such as eco-trauma, ecocriticism, and cultural and moral critique. Through an in-depth analysis of Michael’s character, the study explores how radical environmentalism can lead to despair and even suicide. Toller’s character symbolizes spiritual degradation and a progression towards climate extremism. The paper illustrates how psychological trauma leads to forms of violence, self-destruction, and moral or ethical decline. It argues that when religious, political, and corporate sectors fail to respond effectively to climate catastrophe, this failure produces mistrust in individuals. To explore this, the study analyzes the characters, key scenes, and thematic ideas. Schrader reveals links between climate change, human mind, corporations, and religion. The study contributes to understanding the hardships individuals confront due to the climate crisis in the modern era.

Keywords: Cultural and Moral Critique, Climate Crisis, Climate Radicalization, Ecological Collapse, Eco-Criticism, Eco-Trauma