The 2012 movie concludes with the successful navigation of several arks through the tsunami waves created by the catastrophic geological events, carrying a carefully selected representation of humanity and animal life to higher ground. Ultimately, they reach the Cape of Good Hope in South Africa as the floodwaters recede, marking the beginning of a new era and the hope for the rebuilding of civilization.
A Glimpse into the Final Moments
The final act of 2012 is a nail-biting race against time and nature’s fury. The arks, built as a last-ditch effort to preserve life, face a series of near-fatal challenges. From mechanical failures to navigating treacherous debris fields, the survival of humanity hangs in the balance. Jackson Curtis, played by John Cusack, along with his family and a diverse group of survivors, plays a crucial role in ensuring the ark’s functionality and, ultimately, its survival. The ark assigned to them initially malfunctions just before reaching safe harbor, requiring desperate measures and significant sacrifice. The successful restart of the ark’s drills just moments before impact allows the ark to enter the designated safe harbor, thus leading to a triumphant arrival at a significantly altered Earth.
The film doesn’t explicitly detail the immediate aftermath, but rather hints at the challenges and opportunities that await the survivors. The world is undeniably changed, with landscapes submerged and familiar landmarks destroyed. The survivors, a microcosm of the old world, must now collaborate to establish a new society, a daunting task fraught with uncertainties. The visual of the rising sun over the flooded landscape offers a glimmer of hope, symbolizing the dawn of a new chapter for humanity.
Addressing Your Burning Questions: FAQs About the Ending of 2012
Here are some frequently asked questions that help to clarify details and explore the implications of the ending of 2012.
Who actually survives in the movie 2012?
The survivors in 2012 are primarily those who secured a place on the arks. This includes a selection of political leaders, scientists, military personnel, wealthy individuals, and those deemed essential for rebuilding society. The film focuses on the survival of Jackson Curtis and his family, but also showcases the survival of other key characters such as Adrian Helmsley, the geologist who initially discovered the impending disaster, and Laura Wilson, the President’s daughter. In addition, the film shows the survival of smaller groups outside the Ark system, e.g., the villagers in the Himalayas, thus highlighting the possibility that some individuals might have survived through adaptation.
What happens to the President of the United States in 2012?
In a poignant and selfless act, President Thomas Wilson chooses to remain in Washington D.C. to address the nation and oversee emergency operations. He ultimately perishes when the tidal wave engulfs the city, fulfilling his duty to the American people. His sacrifice underscores the themes of leadership and responsibility in the face of overwhelming catastrophe.
Why was the Cape of Good Hope chosen as the destination?
The Cape of Good Hope in South Africa was chosen as the destination due to its high elevation and its location away from the most heavily affected tectonic plates. The arks were designed to withstand the initial seismic activity and tidal waves, but a safe landing zone with enough landmass remaining above sea level was crucial. The Cape of Good Hope fulfilled these requirements, offering a potentially habitable region for the survivors to begin rebuilding.
What about the rest of the world? Did anyone else survive?
While the film primarily focuses on the ark survivors, it is implied that pockets of humanity may have survived in various locations around the world. The film shows the existence of a Buddhist monastery high in the Himalayas that remained untouched by the cataclysm, and suggests that other isolated communities with sufficient resources and geographical advantages could have weathered the storm. However, the vast majority of the Earth’s population is presumed lost.
What is the significance of the ark malfunction and how was it resolved?
The malfunction of the drills on the ark carrying Jackson Curtis and his family represented a critical setback, jeopardizing the lives of everyone on board. The drills were essential for anchoring the ark to the mountain during the tsunami. The resolution came through a combination of Jackson’s resourcefulness, the bravery of Gordon Silberman, and the eventual sacrifice of a technician who cleared a critical obstruction in the gears. This plot point highlights the importance of human ingenuity and collaboration in overcoming seemingly insurmountable odds. The sacrifice highlights the humanistic element amidst a devastating apocalyptic event.
What kind of society do the survivors envision for the future?
The film doesn’t explicitly outline the survivors’ plans for the future, but it suggests a focus on collaboration, resilience, and a recognition of the importance of preserving knowledge and skills. They carry with them a diverse range of individuals, representing different professions, cultures, and backgrounds, implying a need for a cooperative and inclusive approach to rebuilding civilization. Hopefully, the mistakes of the past that led to the global catastrophe are noted and avoided.
How much of the Earth is submerged after the events of 2012?
The movie suggests a significant portion of the Earth’s landmass is submerged following the cataclysmic events. Coastal regions are particularly devastated, and many major cities are completely underwater. The new coastline is dramatically altered, with continents significantly reduced in size. The exact percentage of submerged land is not specified, but the visual impact is clear: the world is drastically reshaped.
Why were only a select few allowed on the arks?
The decision to limit access to the arks was a controversial and morally complex one. The reality is that resources were limited, and difficult choices had to be made regarding who would be given the opportunity to survive. The selection criteria prioritized individuals deemed essential for rebuilding society, including scientists, engineers, medical professionals, and skilled workers. Political leaders and wealthy individuals also secured places, highlighting the ethical dilemmas inherent in such a scenario.
What scientific basis, if any, does the movie 2012 have?
While the events depicted in 2012 are largely fictional and exaggerated, the movie draws inspiration from certain scientific concepts and theories. The film references the 2012 phenomenon, a now-debunked belief that a catastrophic event would occur in 2012 based on interpretations of the Mayan calendar. It also incorporates elements of geological science, such as the effects of solar flares and tectonic plate movement, although the scale and speed of these events are highly dramatized for cinematic effect. The core science is thus mostly fictionally based.
What role did Adrian Helmsley play in the survival of humanity?
Adrian Helmsley, played by Chiwetel Ejiofor, is a crucial character in the film. As a geologist, he is among the first to discover the impending geological disaster and works tirelessly to alert world leaders and develop the ark project. His scientific expertise and dedication are instrumental in ensuring the construction and operation of the arks, making him a key figure in the survival of humanity.
Is there any sequel or follow-up to the movie 2012?
As of now, there are no official sequels or follow-up movies to 2012. The film was intended as a standalone disaster epic, and while the ending leaves room for potential future stories, no plans for a continuation have been announced. The story seemingly comes to a satisfactory close with the establishment of the new society and the receding of the flood waters.
What is the overall message or theme of the movie 2012?
The movie 2012 explores several key themes, including the fragility of human civilization, the destructive power of nature, the importance of family and human connection, and the capacity for both selfishness and self-sacrifice in the face of disaster. The film ultimately conveys a message of hope and resilience, suggesting that even after the most devastating events, humanity can find a way to survive and rebuild. It also raises questions about ethical responsibility and the choices we make when confronted with existential threats. The film thus serves as a cautionary tale and an optimistic vision of the future.