The ensemble cast of “What Happened to Monday” captivated audiences with their portrayal of the Settman sisters battling a dystopian future. Since the film’s 2017 release, the actors have embarked on diverse career paths, starring in prominent television shows, blockbuster movies, and independent projects, showcasing their versatility and expanding their artistic horizons.
The Settman Sisters and Beyond: Catching Up with the Cast
“What Happened to Monday” presented a unique challenge for its actors, most notably Noomi Rapace, who delivered a tour-de-force performance as all seven Settman sisters. The film’s thought-provoking narrative and action-packed sequences secured its place as a compelling piece of dystopian science fiction. But what became of the talent that brought this world to life? Let’s explore the subsequent careers of the key cast members.
Noomi Rapace: From Settman Sisters to Leading Lady
Noomi Rapace, the heart and soul of “What Happened to Monday,” has continued to build an impressive resume since the film’s release. She has consistently chosen roles that showcase her range, moving seamlessly between independent dramas and high-profile blockbusters. Immediately following “Monday,” Rapace starred in films like “Bright” alongside Will Smith and Joel Edgerton, showcasing her ability to handle action-oriented roles. She has also starred in several Scandinavian productions, maintaining her ties to her roots and tackling complex, character-driven roles. Her commitment to challenging projects and her proven ability to embody multifaceted characters have solidified her position as a leading actress in international cinema. Recent roles include “You Won’t Be Alone” (2022) and “Assassin Club” (2023), demonstrating her continued dedication to diverse and challenging roles.
Glenn Close: From Villainous Bureaucrat to Stage and Screen Legend
Glenn Close, a veteran actress with a career spanning decades, delivered a chilling performance as Nicolette Cayman, the head of the Child Allocation Bureau. Following “What Happened to Monday,” Close continued to garner critical acclaim for her performances. She received an Academy Award nomination for her role in “The Wife” (2017), further solidifying her status as one of Hollywood’s most respected actresses. Close has also remained active in theatre, returning to the stage to showcase her formidable talent. Her commitment to both stage and screen, combined with her ability to portray complex and nuanced characters, ensures she remains a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. Her recent appearance in “Tehran” (TV series) further highlights her dedication to captivating performances.
Willem Dafoe: A Character Actor Extraordinaire
Willem Dafoe, who played Terrence Settman, the grandfather and protector of the seven sisters, has consistently delivered compelling performances throughout his career. He continued to work prolifically after “What Happened to Monday,” adding to his already impressive filmography. He received critical acclaim for his performance in “At Eternity’s Gate” (2018), earning another Academy Award nomination. Dafoe has also embraced his villainous side, returning to the role of Norman Osborn/Green Goblin in “Spider-Man: No Way Home” (2021), proving his enduring appeal to audiences across different genres. His dedication to his craft and his willingness to take on diverse and challenging roles make him one of the most respected actors working today.
Marwan Kenzari: Action and Romance
Marwan Kenzari, known for his role as Adrian Knowles, has since broadened his career path into mainstream movies. He had a prominent role in the live-action remake of “Aladdin” (2019) as Jafar, demonstrating his capacity to play a formidable antagonist. He also starred in “The Old Guard” (2020) alongside Charlize Theron, showcasing his action prowess. Kenzari continues to balance his career between different genres, signifying his ability to transcend character limitations.
Clara Read: A Rising Star
While Clara Read played the younger versions of the Settman sisters, her performance should not be understated. Her contribution to the movie made a significant impression with her ability to capture the essence of all seven characters at a younger age. Since “What Happened to Monday,” there is limited information available about Clara Read’s most recent projects.
Behind the Scenes: The Legacy of “What Happened to Monday”
Beyond the actors, “What Happened to Monday” left a lasting impact on audiences due to its relevant themes and engaging plot. The film sparked conversations about overpopulation, government control, and individual freedom. The visual effects and action sequences were also praised for their creativity and execution.
Thematic Relevance
The film’s exploration of overpopulation and resource scarcity remains highly relevant in today’s world. “What Happened to Monday” forces viewers to confront uncomfortable questions about the potential consequences of unchecked population growth and the ethical dilemmas that arise when governments attempt to control reproduction.
Visual and Action Design
The film’s distinctive visual style and action-packed sequences contributed significantly to its overall appeal. The creative use of visual effects to depict the dystopian setting and the thrilling fight choreography kept audiences on the edge of their seats. The world-building within the film made it stand apart from other dystopian storylines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions about the cast and the legacy of “What Happened to Monday:”
What is “What Happened to Monday” about?
“What Happened to Monday” is a dystopian science fiction thriller set in a future where overpopulation has led to a strict one-child policy. Seven identical sisters, each named after a day of the week, live in secrecy and take turns venturing out into the world, posing as a single person. Their carefully orchestrated lives are threatened when Monday disappears.
Where was “What Happened to Monday” filmed?
The majority of the film was shot in Bucharest, Romania. The city’s architecture and atmosphere provided an ideal backdrop for the film’s dystopian setting.
Was “What Happened to Monday” a book before a movie?
No, “What Happened to Monday” was originally a screenplay written by Max Botkin and Kerry Williamson.
How did Noomi Rapace prepare for playing seven different characters?
Noomi Rapace worked closely with the director, Tommy Wirkola, to develop distinct personalities, mannerisms, and physical characteristics for each of the seven sisters. She also worked with a movement coach to ensure that each character had a unique way of walking and moving.
What is the significance of the characters’ names?
The characters are named after the days of the week because each sister is only allowed to go outside on their designated day. This system is crucial for maintaining their secrecy and avoiding detection by the Child Allocation Bureau.
What happened to the seventh sister, Sunday?
The fate of Sunday, the seventh sister, is intentionally left ambiguous in the film. The ending suggests that she is alive and well, but her exact whereabouts remain unknown, providing a potential opening for a sequel.
Is there going to be a “What Happened to Monday 2”?
As of now, there are no confirmed plans for a sequel to “What Happened to Monday.” However, the open ending and the film’s popularity have led to speculation about a possible continuation of the story.
What is the Child Allocation Bureau’s main goal?
The Child Allocation Bureau, headed by Nicolette Cayman, aims to enforce the one-child policy by locating and euthanizing any children born beyond the allowed limit. Their stated goal is to prevent overpopulation and ensure the survival of humanity.
What are some similar movies to “What Happened to Monday”?
Fans of “What Happened to Monday” might also enjoy films like “Children of Men,” “Gattaca,” “The Hunger Games,” and “Divergent,” which explore similar themes of dystopian societies, government control, and individual resistance.
How did the Settman sisters communicate with each other while acting as Karen Settman?
The sisters communicated through a shared apartment, passing information about Karen’s work and personal relationships between them through video logs and written notes.
What is the symbolism of the prosthetic finger that Karen wears?
The prosthetic finger represents the sacrifice that the sisters made to maintain their secret. It symbolizes the physical and emotional toll of living a double life and the lengths they are willing to go to protect each other.
What lasting impact did “What Happened to Monday” have on the actors’ careers?
“What Happened to Monday” significantly boosted the visibility of several cast members, particularly Noomi Rapace. The film showcased her incredible acting range and cemented her status as a versatile and highly sought-after performer. The film also provided opportunities for other cast members to take on more prominent roles in future projects.