“How It Ends” ultimately depicts a world grappling with an unexplained apocalypse, showcasing the resilience and resourcefulness of humanity in the face of unimaginable chaos. The film is less about pinpointing the cause of the cataclysm and more about exploring the complex relationships forged and broken during times of existential threat.
The End is Nigh: Unpacking the Narrative Core
“How It Ends,” a 2018 Netflix film, throws viewers into a post-apocalyptic America plagued by a mysterious and devastating seismic event. The story centers around Will (Theo James) as he embarks on a perilous cross-country journey to reunite with his pregnant girlfriend, Samantha (Kat Graham), whose father, Tom (Forest Whitaker), disapproves of Will. This fraught personal drama unfolds against the backdrop of societal collapse, highlighting the challenges of navigating human relationships amidst widespread panic and destruction. The film deliberately avoids offering definitive explanations for the apocalyptic event, instead focusing on the characters’ emotional and psychological struggles for survival and connection.
A Journey of Peril and Redemption
The narrative structure of “How It Ends” is built around Will and Tom’s arduous road trip. Their journey is punctuated by encounters with various survivors, each reflecting different aspects of humanity’s response to the apocalypse – from altruism and collaboration to selfishness and violence. The evolving relationship between Will and Tom, initially strained by their differing personalities and Tom’s disapproval of Will’s relationship with Samantha, forms the emotional core of the film. They are forced to rely on each other for survival, gradually building a grudging respect and eventually a deeper understanding. The challenges they face, including navigating treacherous landscapes, avoiding dangerous groups of survivors, and coping with the psychological toll of the apocalypse, test their limits and ultimately reveal their true characters.
Ambiguity and Interpretation
One of the most debated aspects of “How It Ends” is its ambiguous ending. The film concludes without providing a definitive resolution to the apocalyptic event or explicitly showing Will and Samantha reuniting. This open-endedness invites viewers to interpret the narrative in various ways, prompting discussions about the nature of hope, survival, and the resilience of the human spirit. The lack of closure can be frustrating for some viewers, but it also encourages reflection on the themes explored throughout the film. Was there a possibility of Samantha and Will meeting? Was the impending dust storm merely a local incident? The film leaves the possibilities open, creating a story ripe for interpretation.
Frequently Asked Questions: Delving Deeper into “How It Ends”
Here are some frequently asked questions about “How It Ends,” providing further insight into the film’s plot, themes, and reception.
1. What exactly caused the apocalypse in “How It Ends”?
The film never explicitly states the cause. Theories range from a series of massive earthquakes and volcanic eruptions triggered by an unknown geological event to some form of weaponized technology. The ambiguity is intentional, shifting the focus from the ‘how’ to the ‘what now’.
2. Why is Tom so against Will being with Samantha?
Tom’s disapproval stems from his protective nature toward Samantha and his perception of Will as irresponsible and lacking direction. He sees Will as an unsuitable partner for his daughter, particularly given the volatile situation in the world.
3. What happens to Ricki after Will and Tom leave her?
Ricki’s fate is left ambiguous. She chooses to remain in the remote outpost, providing Will and Tom with crucial supplies and information. Her resourcefulness suggests she’s capable of surviving, but the dangers of the post-apocalyptic world make her future uncertain.
4. Is there any deeper meaning behind the Native American character’s (the “Apache”) appearance?
The “Apache” character, while brief, highlights the theme of survival and resilience that transcends cultural boundaries. He represents the enduring spirit of indigenous communities and their deep connection to the land, offering a contrasting perspective to the societal breakdown seen in the film. Some view him as a symbol of knowledge and resilience in an apocalyptic time, with his spiritual connection to the land giving him an advantage in survival.
5. What is the significance of the dust storms in the film?
The dust storms act as both a physical threat and a metaphorical representation of the uncertainty and chaos plaguing the world. They symbolize the breakdown of order and the unpredictable nature of the new reality.
6. What did Will and Tom learn from each other during their journey?
Will learns the importance of responsibility and self-reliance, demonstrating a willingness to protect Samantha. Tom learns to see Will’s potential and acknowledges his genuine love for his daughter, eventually accepting him as a worthy partner.
7. Why is “How It Ends” considered a divisive film by some critics?
The film’s ambiguous ending, slow pacing, and lack of concrete answers frustrated some critics. Some found the lack of resolution unsatisfying, while others appreciated the film’s focus on character development and thematic exploration.
8. What are some similar movies to “How It Ends” that viewers might enjoy?
Viewers who enjoyed “How It Ends” might appreciate other post-apocalyptic road trip films, such as “The Road,” “Z for Zachariah,” and “Mad Max: Fury Road.” These films explore similar themes of survival, human connection, and the breakdown of society.
9. Could a sequel to “How It Ends” ever be made?
Given the ambiguous ending, a sequel is theoretically possible. However, as of today, there have been no official announcements regarding a sequel. The success of a sequel would likely depend on finding a compelling narrative that builds upon the original film’s themes while providing a more satisfying resolution.
10. What does the title “How It Ends” actually mean?
The title can be interpreted on multiple levels. It refers to the immediate apocalyptic event, but also to the potential end of relationships, hope, and humanity itself. The film explores how different characters choose to confront the ‘end,’ both literally and figuratively.
11. Are there any subtle clues throughout the movie that hint at the cause of the apocalypse?
While the film intentionally avoids explicitly stating the cause, some viewers have pointed to subtle clues, such as the frequent mention of seismic activity and the government’s apparent lack of preparedness, as potential hints. However, these clues are largely speculative and open to interpretation.
12. What is the most important message or theme that “How It Ends” conveys?
“How It Ends” conveys several important messages, including the importance of human connection in the face of adversity, the resilience of the human spirit, and the potential for redemption even in the darkest of times. The film ultimately suggests that even when the world is falling apart, love, hope, and compassion can endure.