Movie Review: The Endless (2017)
Synopsis
"The Endless," a mind-bending science fiction horror film directed by Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead, follows the story of two brothers, Justin (played by Aaron Moorhead) and Aaron (played by Justin Benson), who escape from a doomsday cult after many years. Struggling to adapt to life outside of the cult, the brothers receive a mysterious video message from their former community asking them to return for just a weekend. With uncertainty but a yearning for closure, they decide to revisit the cult, which is based in a remote area of California. As they reconnect with the community, they begin to experience strange occurrences that blur the lines between reality and madness, questioning not just their own perceptions but also the nature of time and existence itself.
Cast of Characters
- Aaron Moorhead as Justin
- Justin Benson as Aaron
- Callie Hernandez as Anna
- Tate Ellington as Hal
- Lew Temple as the Camp’s Leader
- James Jordan as the Pariah
- Kira Powell as the Younger Version of the Camp’s Leader
- Peter Cilella as an Unseen Cult Member
Review
"The Endless" is a remarkable entry in the realm of independent science fiction horror that expertly intertwines cerebral examination and existential dread. Directors Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead have crafted a narrative that is not only engaging and suspenseful but also dilated in its thematic ambition, beckoning viewers to ponder their understanding of time, belief, and the supernatural. It stands as a testament to the duo’s remarkable ability to create a compelling story with a budget that forces them to flex their creative muscles, effectively turning constraints into strengths.
The film’s structure is akin to a Russian doll; layers upon layers of narrative embellishments build an engrossing experience. The slow burn of the plot is skillfully executed, absorbing the audience into an intricate world that feels both familiar yet uncannily foreign. Much of the film’s strength lies in its enigmatic atmosphere. The setting, which oscillates between the mundane and the bizarre, is crafted beautifully, luring viewers into a disquieting reality where the brothers’ journey becomes both an exploration of their past and an unsettling confrontation with the unknown.
As the brothers reintegrate into their former community, the tension escalates. The initial camaraderie soon spirals into paranoia as strange phenomena begin to unfold. The cult members, portrayed with an uncanny sincerity, radiate a sense of intrigue which keeps audiences questioning their intentions. The film paints a near-perfect portrait of a cult’s insidious grip over its members, encapsulating both the allure and the peril of a tightly-knit community predicated on shared beliefs—and, intriguingly, their simultaneous recognition of something awry in their existence.
One remarkable aspect of "The Endless" lies in the performances of its lead actors. Moorhead and Benson depict the brothers with a palpable chemistry that is both relatable and deeply emotional. Aaron’s innocent curiosity serves as a counterbalance to Justin’s more cynical perspective, establishing a dynamic that feels relatable in its complexity. Their contrasting personalities are not merely foils but are emblematic of the struggles and conflicts faced by countless individuals who grapple with their beliefs and the entities that envelop them.
The supporting cast also excels, with Tate Ellington as Hal imbuing his character with a creeping unsettlingness that leaves viewers questioning his increasing eccentricity. Callie Hernandez as Anna brings levity to the oppressive atmosphere, her warmth serving as a kind of beacon amid the despair. Each character embodies a facet of the cult’s mystique; they are inviting yet disturbing, embodying the duality that lies within belief.
The film is rife with visual symbolism and foreshadowing that rewards attentive viewers. The cinematography, led by Moorhead himself, employs an unsettling yet graceful style that effectively communicates the film’s rising tension. The interplay of light and shadow, coupled with striking colour palettes, mirrors the emotional arcs of the characters, drawing the audience deeper into their consternation. The eerie score complements the visuals, enhancing the film’s harrowing moments without ever overshadowing the narrative.
Benson and Moorhead further enhance the film with themes that resonate universally, touching upon the relentless passage of time, the persuasive nature of belief, and the cyclical aspects of existence. The film articulately explores notions of fate versus free will, thus prompting one to reevaluate the very nature of reality. As the brothers confront the inexplicable phenomena surrounding the cult, what emerges is an intricate meditation on choice, consequence, and the significance of cyclical patterns that govern our lives.
However, "The Endless" is not without its shortcomings. Some viewers may find the pacing sluggish at times, with the initial build-up potentially testing the patience of those anticipating more traditional horror or action sequences. The film’s enigmatic conclusion may also leave some viewers feeling unsatisfied, as it operates within the realm of ambivalence and ambiguity, which might not resonate with every audience member. Nevertheless, these qualities contribute to the film’s unique texture, inviting a deeper engagement and reflection rather than a straightforward consumption.
In its conclusion, "The Endless" offers a striking coda that marries the themes explored within the film, leaving viewers with an unsettling sense of wonderment and contemplation. This open-ended finale, combined with the film’s artistic merit and intellectual ambition, cements its place as a contemporary gem in the horror genre.
Conclusion
"The Endless" is an audacious film that fearlessly delves into themes of belief, existence, and the complexities of familial bonds. Through a thought-provoking narrative, a rich atmosphere, and solid performances, Benson and Moorhead deliver an experience that challenges perceptions while maintaining integrity within its genre. It’s a film that stays with you, demanding reflection long after the credits roll. For those who appreciate intelligent storytelling layered with ambiguity, "The Endless" is an essential watch.
Score: 8.5/10
