In 1998, moviegoers were given two similarly themed films. Both Armageddon and Deep Impact told the story of a large asteroid heading towards Earth. Whereas Armageddon was the action-packed Bruce Willis vehicle about a group of roughnecks sent into space to stop the asteroid, Deep Impact gave us a more well-rounded perspective. Yes, we were introduced to the team of far more qualified astronauts sent into space, but we were also shown more of the impact the impending doom was having on society.
Buy Seeking a Friend for the End of the World Blu-rayBoth films did well, but it wasn’t until 2012 that we got a story that presented the deep impact the impending Armageddon would have on an average Joe. In Seeking a Friend for the End of the World, we receive just that. Steve Carell portrays insurance-salesmen Dodge, who is now single since his wife leaves him in the opening scene of the film when it is announced that all efforts to stop the asteroid heading towards Earth have failed. There are 21 days left. Carell’s ability to portray functional shock is quite engaging as the audience is contemplating their own reaction to such a scenario.
Dodge tries to maintain his normal routine, but reality eventually sets in, and he decides to go find the one that got away. We discover that Dodge has been pining over his high-school sweetheart and finding her gives him purpose in what appears to be his last days. His neighbor Penny (Keira Knightley) is lamenting the missed opportunity to see her parents one last time, so Dodge invites her to journey with him and promises her a way to get from New York to England. Off they go on their adventure through a rapidly disintegrating society with a recently acquired dog, who adds little to the story.
Writer/director Lorene Scafaria does an excellent job of weaving a tale that is poignant with both laughter and excitement. It is the turns that we don’t see coming that makes this such an enjoyable trip. Yes, there are some turns you will anticipate, and the end may not be a surprise, but you will enjoy watching as characters seek friends for the end of the world.
I’d like to say that this re-release is filled with great bonus material, but, well, it’s not. Unfortunately, in this case, it is the end of the world. The outtakes generate a few smiles at best, and featurettes on the film and the music are mildly interesting. As is often the case, it seems like said material is produced out of obligation more than a desire to be insightful.
Seeking a Friend for the End of the World receives Ron’s Recommendation. Carell and Knightley give solid performances enhanced by their chemistry. This is a simple story taking place in a world-changing environment filled with interesting and enjoyable characters.
