“What About Monday,” a dystopian science fiction action thriller, asks a profound question: what happens when individual liberty is sacrificed on the altar of perceived societal good? The film answers this query with a visually stunning, emotionally resonant, and ultimately chilling depiction of a world where overpopulation mandates extreme measures, revealing the human cost of such draconian control.
The Core Question Answered: Humanity Dehumanized
At its heart, “What About Monday” doesn’t just present a futuristic scenario; it explores the inherent conflict between population control and personal freedom. The film answers its titular question – what happens to the “Monday” sister? – with a brutal honesty: she, like her other six siblings, is caught in a system that prioritizes the survival of the many over the individual right to exist. This central dilemma highlights the dehumanizing effect of authoritarian control.
The film’s narrative showcases the consequences of the Child Allocation Bureau (CAB) and its ruthless leader, Nicolette Cayman. Cayman, portrayed with chilling conviction, believes that limiting families to one child is the only way to prevent the planet’s collapse. The film argues that while her intentions may stem from a genuine concern for humanity’s future, her methods are morally reprehensible and ultimately unsustainable. The brutal suppression of individuality depicted in the film, the forced identity sharing, and the constant fear of exposure all point to a society built on coercion and control, leaving little room for genuine human connection and happiness.
Ultimately, “What About Monday” answers its central question with a resounding cautionary tale. It suggests that even with the best intentions, sacrificing individual rights for the sake of the collective good can lead to a world where humanity itself is diminished, and the very essence of what makes us human – our individuality, our freedom of choice, and our capacity for love and connection – is systematically eradicated.
Exploring the Dystopian World
“What About Monday” paints a vivid picture of a society struggling under the weight of overpopulation. Resources are scarce, rationing is strict, and the government, under the guise of ecological responsibility, exerts absolute control over its citizens’ lives.
The Reality of the CAB
The Child Allocation Bureau (CAB) is the instrument of control in this dystopian world. It is responsible for identifying and “cryosleeping” (in reality, euthanizing) any child born beyond the one-child policy. The CAB operates with relentless efficiency, using advanced technology and a network of informants to track down and eliminate unauthorized individuals. The sheer scale of the CAB’s operations and its impact on the lives of ordinary citizens underscores the pervasiveness of state control.
The Impact on Individuals
The film focuses on the plight of the seven Settman sisters, each named after a day of the week. Their grandfather, Terrence Settman, raises them in secrecy, training them to share one identity, Karen Settman, and only venture out on their designated day. This precarious existence is constantly threatened by the CAB’s vigilance, forcing the sisters to live in a state of perpetual fear and paranoia. The psychological toll of this enforced secrecy and the constant threat of discovery are significant themes explored throughout the film.
Action, Intrigue, and Social Commentary
While “What About Monday” offers thrilling action sequences and intricate plot twists, it is also a thought-provoking social commentary on issues such as overpopulation, environmentalism, and the ethical implications of genetic engineering.
The Action-Packed Narrative
The film is punctuated by intense action sequences, showcasing the Settman sisters’ resourcefulness and combat skills as they fight to survive against the CAB’s forces. These action scenes are not merely gratuitous; they serve to highlight the desperation of their situation and the lengths they will go to protect their freedom.
The Underlying Message
Beyond the action and intrigue, “What About Monday” prompts viewers to consider the potential consequences of unchecked population growth and the ethical dilemmas that arise when governments attempt to control reproduction. The film encourages critical thinking about the balance between individual rights and collective well-being, and the dangers of sacrificing one for the other.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about “What About Monday,” designed to provide further insight into the film’s themes, characters, and production.
FAQ 1: What is the main message of “What About Monday”?
The main message revolves around the dangers of sacrificing individual liberty for the perceived common good. The film argues that while addressing serious issues like overpopulation is important, the means used to achieve this goal should not infringe upon fundamental human rights and freedoms.
FAQ 2: Is “What About Monday” based on a book?
No, “What About Monday” is an original screenplay, not based on any pre-existing novel or other literary work.
FAQ 3: Who plays the role of the seven sisters?
Noomi Rapace delivers a tour-de-force performance, playing all seven of the Settman sisters. This feat of acting and visual effects is a key element of the film’s appeal.
FAQ 4: What happens to the sister who goes missing on Monday?
This is a central plot point. Monday is initially assumed dead after going missing. However, the mystery surrounding her disappearance fuels the narrative and reveals a larger conspiracy within the CAB. Her fate is tied to uncovering the truth about Nicolette Cayman’s ultimate agenda.
FAQ 5: Is there a sequel to “What About Monday”?
As of now, there are no confirmed plans for a sequel. While the film’s ending leaves room for further exploration, no official announcement regarding a continuation of the story has been made.
FAQ 6: Who is Nicolette Cayman in “What About Monday”?
Nicolette Cayman is the ruthless head of the Child Allocation Bureau (CAB), the driving force behind the one-child policy. She believes her methods are necessary to save the planet from overpopulation, but her actions are often morally questionable.
FAQ 7: What is the “cryosleep” that the CAB uses?
The film uses the term “cryosleep,” but it is revealed to be a euphemism for euthanasia. The children deemed surplus are not frozen but are instead killed. This deception adds to the film’s disturbing portrayal of governmental control.
FAQ 8: How did the Settman sisters manage to remain hidden for so long?
The Settman sisters’ survival is attributed to the meticulous planning and discipline instilled by their grandfather, Terrence Settman. He trained them to share one identity and minimize their exposure to the outside world, teaching them survival tactics and the importance of secrecy.
FAQ 9: What is the significance of the names of the sisters?
Each sister is named after a day of the week, reflecting the day they are allowed to venture outside and assume the shared identity of Karen Settman. This simple naming convention underscores the dehumanization inherent in their controlled existence.
FAQ 10: Does “What About Monday” offer any solutions to overpopulation?
The film primarily focuses on the negative consequences of extreme population control measures rather than offering concrete solutions to overpopulation. It serves as a cautionary tale, urging viewers to consider the ethical implications of such policies.
FAQ 11: What are the ethical considerations raised by the film?
The film raises numerous ethical questions surrounding population control, government surveillance, individual rights, and the definition of humanity. It forces viewers to grapple with the difficult choices that societies may face in the future, and the potential trade-offs between individual freedom and collective survival.
FAQ 12: Is “What About Monday” worth watching?
“What About Monday” is a compelling and thought-provoking film that combines thrilling action sequences with a relevant social commentary. Noomi Rapace’s performance is exceptional, and the film’s exploration of dystopian themes makes it a worthwhile watch for fans of science fiction and action thrillers. It sparks crucial conversations about our future and the values we choose to prioritize.