Streaming on Netflix
There is no denying that the modern world is overtly divided for ridiculous and repugnant reasons. Chief among them is our overreliance upon technology, our elected leaders acting like spoiled children arguing over who gets to play with the toy truck more, and an unhealthy desire to be right rather than informed. With everything regarding our future floating in space, what can we expect or should we prepare for? That challenging question is tackled and presented expertly in today's film, Leave The World Behind. A character-driven thriller that brings the horrors of our potential future front and center while still delivering an enthralling, entertaining, and engaging experience.
Based on the novel by Rumaan Alam, the story follows a family taking an impromptu vacation away from the city at a luxurious cabin, seeking a temporary getaway from the hustle and bustle of the world. However, shortly after arriving, things turn for the strange: all of their devices have mysteriously lost their signals, the local animals appear to be acting unusual, and what little information they obtain is vague at best & unpleasant at worst. Not helped by the arrival of the original owners showing up in the middle of the night in need of a place to stay, which some family members find a tad suspicious. As the days go on and everyone begins putting the pieces together, they will soon learn what is happening and what must be done for survival.
The film does a remarkable job of presenting the characters and situations with engaging tension. Carried along beautifully with a talented cast, sharp writing, and mindful direction that presents a human story with no fear. Not to mention some insightful and appreciated commentary on things like perception, family, and the importance of physical media of all types. The film succeeds in being insightful and provocative without appearing preachy or pretentious.
The film comes to us courtesy of writer/director Sam Esmail, whom you may recall as the creative mind behind the Amazon Prime show Homecoming. A series I have not reviewed but have seen and enjoyed exponentially. Many of Sam Esmail's artistic signatures (elaborate camerawork, animal motifs, and psychological suspense) can be found in his feature-film debut. In short, I would gladly put him on par with Alfred Hitchcock for his expertise in suspense and mastery of the film language; I look forward to his next cinematic adventure, whatever it may be.
Leave The World Behind is a relevant and, dare I say, riveting film that deserves your attention. It is suspenseful, occasionally funny, and gives a few essential points about what it will take to ensure our survival in this modern world. It will scare you, as it should, and you just might thank the movie for it. I know I did.
Ladies & gentlemen, I am TheNorm; thank you all for reading.
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