The End movie review: Despite its subject matter Joshua Oppenheimer created The End as different from standard post-apocalyptic narratives. The film goes beyond showing fear and devastation by delving into sad feelings about regrets while presenting a strange shift in circumstances. Through the talent of Tilda Swinton and Michael Shannon this film combines original music with deep ideas to create an unforgettable viewing experience.
Plot Summary
Because of environmental destruction their world has collapsed and for 25 years a wealthy energy magnate with his ballerina wife have hidden inside an underground luxury shelter. His father (Michael Shannon) labours on a book defending himself and the son (George MacKay) builds tiny replicas of Earth instead of helping their mother (Tilda Swinton).
A young woman suddenly breaks into their secured shelter and forces the well-planned trio to face an external world they cut themselves off from. The father and son relationship turns around while the young female visitor creates new thoughts of love between these characters.
A Post-Apocalyptic Musical?
The End stands out from other films because it integrates music playfully into its storey design. Against regular disaster films the movie integrates song-and-dance breaks in vivid color combined with refined choreographed actions. Though society crumbles the movie displays La La Land-like dancing moments between characters before society collapses.
Outstanding Performances
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Through his skillful acting Michael Shannon shows us a man who refuses to accept blame yet lives with guilt inside.
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Through the female lead Tilda Swinton shows how memory helps a person hold onto their past existence.
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George MacKay displays his character’s emotional diffuseness as a well-manipulated son.
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Through her acting Moses Ingram brings essential layers of suspense and mystery to the plot of the storey.
A Deeper Meaning
Unlike other climate-change films The End explores how humans deny and deceive themselves about reality. The film portrays a man named Shannon who behaves like actual climate deniers through remarks like “Climate change happened in every era.” By examining escape plans of the wealthy the film reveals that money fails to protect against natural outcomes of their conduct.
Visually Stunning
Though most scenes happen underground the movie looks visually memorable. Throughout the film the creators carefully prepare each shot blending beautiful architectural designs with both manmade and natural artwork. Odd lighting effects and colourful costuming combined with dreamlike singing help create artistic beauty throughout the film.
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Final Verdict
The End is not for everyone. Its serious nature along with its unique music presentation can prove too intense for some audience members. When it comes to strong narratives, thought-provoking content and different film experiences this unforgettable movie stands out best for its viewers.
⭐ Rating: 4.5/5
🎭 Genre: Drama, Musical, Sci-Fi
📅 Release Year: 2024
🎬 Director: Joshua Oppenheimer
🎤 Starring: Michael Shannon, Tilda Swinton, George MacKay, Moses Ingram