The Endless (2017) — Yet another unheard indie sci-fi

in CineTV3 years ago (edited)

The Endless (2017)

Dir — Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead

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You know about those time loop films where the protagonist(s) gets stuck in a time loop and they have to go through it over and over again; and dying doesn't really make the loop stop and no amount of deliberate suicide doesn't break the loop and you get to live essentially endlessly? Yep, the trope is overused and every year we see one or two iterations (maybe more?). Perhaps, the most significant pioneer of the trope is Groundhog day where a weather reporter played by Bill Murray gets stuck in a loop and the loop changes his life, personality and philosophy significantly. Now, groundhog day is a drama with some humane aspects to it; and the fantasy part of it is merely there to support the narrative. However, the modern iterations of the trope usually have a crappy story that solely relies on the trope and use it as a gimmick; making the films super boring.

I can almost sense the conversation these two guys had when they decided to make "The Endless". Justin probably said to Aaron, 'You know what? We'll take those individual time loops, mash them together, throw in some lovecraftian monster in it, like Cthulhu. This one is ever present, in and around everywhere, controlling people, controlling their lives. But we'll keep things subdued, focus on the relationships but keep throwing bones of the story, you know, like only a hint here, a hint there.'
And that's what they did! And I sure enjoyed the film.

Two brothers left a cult that worshipped a bizarre godlike entity in the woods and its been a decade since. They are now leading crappy lives, living hand to mouth essentially. They decide to go back to the cult to see how they were doing and there's the undertone "did we leave for no reason and messed up our lives?". However, the allure of fine, healthy lives and twisted mystery masqueraded underneath a veil of cult faith keep them on their toes. They must make decisions and also fix their personal broken relationship as a family.

Now, the directors wrote the film, directed the film, manned the camera, produced it, edited it and also acted as the two protagonists. Not surprising, considering its indie nature. I kind of like films made this way honestly. They have a personal touch to them. Not exactly like auteur theory (although technically it is) but close to it.

It's evident in the film they didn't have big budget for set decorations and VFX. I could deduce exactly how they made the time loops, the shimmering effects and jumps, pretty common stuff. However, despite the lack of big pockets, they were able to make a captivating sci-fi film with an engaging story, and convincing performances. This speaks volume, not only for them but also the medium and serves as a example to all the nay-sayers who find excuses to sit tight and never pick up their camera.

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Oh there are three moons in the sky! This reminded me of Haruki Murakami's novel 1Q84, where two moons marked the event that separated our world from the world of little people. Perhaps the director duo took the inspiration from there, here three moons mark a significant event.

Found the film through @thomashnblum, a fellow member of cinetv. So thank you for it. :)

Trailer -


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The Endless was spectacular, I consider it a masterpiece when it comes to indie scifi. This is actually their second film that takes place in this weird setting, years before releasing this film they released another one called Resolution. It has an even bigger indie feel than this one but you should check it out if you enjoyed The Endless. It is not as good but provides another angle at some of the weird things that happen in this place.

Other good films by the same creators are Spring, which I believe is also part of the same universe but I am not quite sure, and Synchronic, a film about a drug pill that changes the way the people "perceives" time. My favorite from this duo is The Endless though.

three moons :)

and

Edge of Tomorrow?

Oh yeah, seen that film and enjoyed more than I should! Emily blunt is also unforgettable!

You like Emily Blunt, huh? :)

Seen this?

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunshine_Cleaning

Haven't seen this one!

Well, yes, Emily is a fine actor (and a nearly perfect woman!).
Looks like Amy Adams in there too!

Loads of good stuff in this review:

Groundhog Day
Scifi
Lovecraftian monster and this:

Now, the directors wrote the film, directed the film, manned the camera, produced it, edited it and also acted as the two protagonists.

That sounds like my last film project that was made long distance, in two locations ( USA and Portugal ) with a buddy of mine that I collaborated with between 2013 and 2019 without ever meeting up in real life. Unfortunately we never managed to finish a feature film project, even though we seriously tried thrice. The last time in 2016-17

This review of yours very much makes me want to watch this. I wonder if it will reawaken the filmmaker ( turned writer / visual artist ) in me.

Cheers buddy! :^)

You definitely should. Since you already tried several times you know what bars your way and the challenges you'll face. :)

I hope you find your footing mate. Good day.

Glad you were interested in the film suggestion! I don't know if it was commented, but this film has a sequel! I haven't seen it yet.


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I'm pretty whimsical about picking up films, but I do like indie sci-fis once in a while!

I see, thanks. I hear this film too is a part of the universe the duo has created.