“How It Ends,” a 2018 Netflix film, isn’t just about the world ending; it’s a tense road trip movie that uses the apocalyptic backdrop as a crucible to forge and repair fractured family relationships, forcing characters to confront past traumas and emotional baggage. Ultimately, it’s a poignant exploration of forgiveness, acceptance, and the power of human connection in the face of unimaginable chaos.
Beyond the Disaster: Decoding the Core Themes
At its surface, “How It Ends” presents a familiar end-of-the-world scenario, complete with seismic events, ash-filled skies, and societal collapse. However, beneath the surface lies a far more intricate narrative centered on the strained relationship between Will, an uptight lawyer, and Tom, his headstrong future father-in-law. Will embarks on a perilous journey to find his pregnant fiancée, Samantha, alongside Tom, forging an unlikely bond as they navigate the unraveling world.
The film cleverly uses the apocalypse as a pressure cooker, forcing Will and Tom to confront their deep-seated animosity and unresolved issues. Tom’s disapproval of Will stems from his protective instincts towards Samantha, while Will views Tom as stubborn and overbearing. As they face life-threatening situations, they’re forced to rely on each other, ultimately learning to appreciate each other’s strengths and vulnerabilities.
Furthermore, the film delves into themes of self-reliance and survival. Each character is tested physically and emotionally, stripped down to their core selves. They must make difficult choices with far-reaching consequences, revealing their true nature under extreme pressure. This exploration of human behavior in the face of disaster adds another layer of depth to the narrative, making it more than just a typical action-packed thriller. The lack of a definitive ‘end’ even emphasizes the point that survival is a continuous journey of adaptation and resilience.
Frequently Asked Questions: Deeper Insights into “How It Ends”
Here, we answer some of the most common questions surrounding “How It Ends,” providing a deeper understanding of the film’s nuances and underlying messages.
Understanding the Disaster
1. What actually caused the apocalypse in “How It Ends”?
The film deliberately remains vague about the exact cause of the apocalyptic event. It’s implied to be a series of geological and atmospheric disturbances, possibly linked to tectonic activity or a yet-to-be-identified environmental catastrophe. This ambiguity allows the focus to remain on the characters’ reactions and relationships, rather than getting bogged down in scientific explanations. The lack of specificity reinforces the idea that the ‘how’ is less important than the ‘what happens next.’
2. Is there any significance to the swirling ash and dust?
The swirling ash and dust are a visual representation of the chaos and uncertainty that have enveloped the world. They symbolize the breakdown of order and the loss of predictability. Moreover, they create a sense of pervasive dread and isolation, reflecting the characters’ emotional state. They also constantly remind the viewer of the ever-present danger.
Character Dynamics and Relationships
3. Why does Tom initially dislike Will so much?
Tom’s initial dislike of Will stems from his overprotective nature towards his daughter, Samantha. He perceives Will as too reserved and perhaps not strong enough to protect her, especially in a world he believes requires toughness and practicality. Tom also hints at past grievances and disappointments with men in Samantha’s life, leading him to be skeptical of Will from the start.
4. How does the apocalypse force Will and Tom to reconcile?
The shared experience of survival in the face of unimaginable hardship forces Will and Tom to rely on each other. They witness each other’s courage, resourcefulness, and vulnerability, shattering their pre-conceived notions. The constant threat of danger compels them to put aside their differences and work together, fostering a grudging respect that eventually blossoms into a genuine bond.
5. What is the significance of Samantha’s profession as a singer?
Samantha’s profession as a singer suggests a certain vulnerability and dependence on a stable environment. Her passion is creative and emotional, contrasting Will’s analytical and Tom’s survivalist approaches. Her absence serves as a powerful motivator for both men, highlighting her importance in their lives and the lengths they are willing to go to protect her.
Philosophical and Symbolic Interpretations
6. What does the film say about the importance of family?
“How It Ends” underscores the enduring importance of family, even amidst the apocalypse. It shows that familial bonds can provide strength, comfort, and purpose in the face of unimaginable loss. The journey to find Samantha becomes a symbol of the unwavering commitment to those we love, even when faced with insurmountable odds.
7. Is there any deeper meaning behind the title, “How It Ends”?
The title is deliberately ambiguous. On one level, it refers to the end of the world. However, it also alludes to the end of relationships and the potential for new beginnings. The lack of a definitive ending for the characters mirrors the uncertainty of the future and the ongoing process of adapting and rebuilding after a catastrophic event. It asks the audience to contemplate what really matters at the “end”.
8. How does the film comment on societal structures and human nature?
The film portrays the fragility of societal structures and the inherent capacity for both good and evil within human nature. As society crumbles, some characters resort to violence and exploitation, while others exhibit compassion and selflessness. The film suggests that even in the face of complete societal collapse, human connection and empathy remain essential for survival.
The Ending and Unanswered Questions
9. What does the ambiguous ending signify?
The ambiguous ending, where Will and Samantha drive towards the unknown with the fires still burning, signifies that survival is an ongoing process, not a destination. It underscores the idea that even after the initial chaos subsides, challenges and uncertainties will persist. It’s also an invitation to the viewer to consider what comes next, forcing them to confront the potential realities of a post-apocalyptic world.
10. Did Will and Samantha actually survive the events of the film?
The film leaves their survival deliberately ambiguous. We see them driving away, but their ultimate fate remains uncertain. This ambiguity serves to highlight the precariousness of their situation and the challenges they will undoubtedly face in the future. It is more about the journey than a conclusive outcome.
Practical Considerations and Relevance
11. What lessons can we learn from “How It Ends” about preparing for potential disasters?
While “How It Ends” is a work of fiction, it offers valuable insights into the importance of preparedness, resourcefulness, and adaptability in the face of potential disasters. It highlights the necessity of having basic survival skills, a strong support network, and a resilient mindset. More importantly, it illustrates the vital need to repair relationships before it is too late.
12. How does “How It Ends” resonate with contemporary anxieties about climate change and global instability?
The film taps into contemporary anxieties about climate change, political instability, and the potential for societal collapse. The imagery of widespread devastation and the breakdown of order resonates with real-world concerns about the future. It serves as a cautionary tale, urging us to consider the consequences of our actions and the importance of working together to address global challenges. Ultimately, it subtly encourages us to evaluate our priorities and cherish our relationships in a world facing increasing uncertainty.