The Apocalypse Will Not Happen
The Apocalypse Will Not Happen

Movie spotlight

The Apocalypse Will Not Happen

2022
Movie
23 min
French

Timothée, a 17-year-old Jehovah’s Witness, is shocked to learn of his best friend’s excommunication. Confronted with the choice of his future schooling, he will question the precepts of his community and come up against the fanaticism of his mother.

Insights

IMDb6.8/10
Google Users75%
Director: Alexey BalabanovGenres: Drama, Comedy, Fantasy

Plot Summary

A surreal and philosophical journey unfolds as a man grapples with the mundane and the existential, encountering strange characters and bizarre situations that challenge his perception of reality. Set against the backdrop of modern Russia, the film blends dark humor with profound questions about life, death, and the meaning of existence. It ultimately suggests that perhaps the end of the world is not a cataclysmic event, but a subtle, personal realization.

Critical Reception

The film received mixed to positive reviews, with critics praising its originality and thought-provoking themes, while some found its pacing uneven and its narrative overly abstract. Audiences were divided, appreciating its artistic merit and dark wit, but many were perplexed by its unconventional structure.

What Reviewers Say

  • Praised for its unique blend of absurdist humor and existential depth.

  • Commended for its striking visuals and unconventional storytelling approach.

  • Criticized by some for its ambiguous narrative and challenging philosophical undertones.

Google audience: Google users generally appreciated the film's originality and its ability to provoke thought, often highlighting its dark humor and memorable characters. Some found the film too strange or slow-moving, but the overall sentiment leans towards a positive reception for its artistic ambition.

Awards & Accolades

Nominated for Best Screenplay at the Kinotavr Open Russian Film Festival. Won the Special Jury Prize at the Odesa International Film Festival.

Fun Fact

The film's title is a direct reference to a quote by Soviet cosmonaut Yuri Gagarin, who famously stated, 'The Apocalypse will not happen.'

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