“How It Ends,” the 2018 Netflix thriller, ultimately ends with an ambiguous but hopeful outlook, depicting Will Hayes and his estranged father-in-law Tom Sutherland reaching safety and potential civilization after traversing a catastrophic America. While the immediate threat seems to subside, the film purposely leaves the nature of the apocalypse and the future of humanity shrouded in mystery, forcing the audience to grapple with the implications of sudden societal collapse and the enduring strength of human connection.
Unraveling the Ambiguity: Beyond the Surface Level
The movie, directed by David M. Rosenthal, isn’t primarily concerned with explaining the precise mechanics of the disaster. The electromagnetic pulse (EMP)-like event that cripples infrastructure and throws the world into chaos serves as a backdrop. Instead, the narrative focuses on the complex relationship between Will and Tom as they navigate the dangers of a lawless landscape to reach Will’s pregnant fiancée, Samantha. The ending underscores this emphasis: it’s less about the how and why of the apocalypse and more about the who – the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring bonds of family in the face of unimaginable adversity.
The arrival at the refugee camp, while signaling a temporary safe haven, doesn’t resolve the fundamental questions. Are there more camps? Can society rebuild? Is the immediate threat truly over? These questions remain unanswered, mirroring the uncertainties inherent in any large-scale disaster scenario. The open-ended conclusion forces viewers to confront their own perspectives on survival, resourcefulness, and the potential for humanity to overcome even the most devastating circumstances.
The Importance of Relationship Dynamics
Central to the film’s narrative is the fraught but ultimately redeeming relationship between Will and Tom. Their initial animosity, stemming from Tom’s disapproval of Will, gradually transforms into a grudging respect and even affection as they face life-threatening challenges together. The journey becomes a crucible, forging a bond between them that would likely have never formed under normal circumstances.
The ending reinforces this theme. By reaching the refugee camp together, they demonstrate the power of collaboration and shared purpose in a world stripped of its conventional structures. Their survival, and the potential survival of Samantha and their unborn child, hinges on their ability to put aside their differences and work as a team. This emphasis on familial bonds in the face of apocalypse is a key takeaway from the film.
Understanding the Deeper Themes
“How It Ends” explores several profound themes beyond simple survival. The film delves into:
- The Fragility of Civilization: The swift collapse of societal infrastructure highlights how easily we can take basic amenities like electricity and communication for granted. It prompts reflection on our dependence on technology and the consequences of its sudden absence.
- Humanity’s Capacity for Both Good and Evil: The film showcases both acts of selfless kindness and brutal violence as individuals grapple with the new reality. It underscores the moral complexities that arise in a lawless environment.
- The Importance of Hope: Despite the bleak circumstances, Will and Tom maintain a persistent hope that they will reach Samantha and that they can rebuild their lives. This hope acts as a powerful motivator and a testament to the enduring human spirit.
- The Power of Redemption: Tom, in particular, undergoes a significant transformation throughout the film. His initial skepticism and stubbornness give way to a willingness to cooperate and even sacrifice himself for Will and Samantha. This arc highlights the potential for personal growth and redemption even in the darkest of times.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What caused the apocalyptic event in “How It Ends”?
The film never explicitly states the cause of the disaster. The dialogue suggests it was a large-scale electromagnetic pulse (EMP) or a similar phenomenon that disabled electrical grids, communication systems, and transportation. This ambiguity allows viewers to focus on the characters’ responses to the event rather than dwelling on its scientific details.
Did Will and Samantha survive?
The film ends with Will and Tom reaching the refugee camp where Samantha is located. While the movie doesn’t explicitly show Samantha, the implication is that she survived. The final scene focuses on Will and Tom’s arrival, leaving Samantha’s status implied and reinforcing the focus on their journey.
Is there a sequel planned for “How It Ends”?
As of now, there are no confirmed plans for a sequel. The open ending certainly leaves room for one, but Netflix has not announced any development. The film’s success and the lingering questions raised by the ending suggest that a sequel could be a viable option in the future.
What was the significance of the Native American tribe Will and Tom encountered?
The Native American tribe represents a community that has maintained its traditions and self-sufficiency despite the collapse of modern society. They embody resilience and a connection to the land that allows them to thrive in a post-apocalyptic world. Their willingness to help Will and Tom highlights the potential for cooperation and understanding across cultures.
What happened to Samantha’s parents?
The fate of Samantha’s mother is not explicitly addressed in the film. However, Tom is shown to be worried about her, indicating that he hasn’t heard from her since the event. It’s implied that she may have been affected by the disaster, but her specific fate remains unknown.
Why were there so many fires during the apocalypse?
The fires were likely caused by a combination of factors, including downed power lines, car accidents, and intentional acts of looting and arson. The lack of emergency services meant that these fires were able to spread quickly and unchecked, contributing to the overall chaos and destruction.
What was the significance of the “end of the world” playlist?
The “end of the world” playlist created by Samantha represents a sense of humor and a way to cope with the impending disaster. It also symbolizes the loss of normalcy and the characters’ attempt to find solace in familiar comforts during a time of great uncertainty.
What are the realistic elements of “How It Ends”?
The film’s depiction of the immediate aftermath of a large-scale disaster, including the breakdown of law and order, the scarcity of resources, and the struggle for survival, is largely realistic. The characters’ emotional responses, such as fear, grief, and determination, also resonate with real-world experiences of trauma and loss.
How does “How It Ends” compare to other apocalyptic movies?
Compared to other apocalyptic movies that often focus on the scientific explanation of the disaster or large-scale societal conflicts, “How It Ends” distinguishes itself by centering on the personal journey and relationship dynamics of its characters. It’s less about the “end of the world” and more about how individuals navigate the end of their own familiar world.
What is the overall message of the film?
The overall message of “How It Ends” is one of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. It suggests that even in the darkest of times, human connection, cooperation, and the will to survive can prevail.
What are some criticisms of “How It Ends”?
Some criticisms of the film include its lack of originality, its reliance on familiar tropes of the apocalyptic genre, and its somewhat predictable plot. The ambiguous ending has also been criticized by some viewers who found it unsatisfying.
Was the dust cloud a nuclear fallout?
While the dust cloud is never explicitly identified, it is more likely a result of the widespread fires and environmental disturbances caused by the disaster. While a nuclear event is possible, the film doesn’t provide any concrete evidence to support this theory, again emphasizing the focus on survival rather than explanation of the cataclysm.