Exploring the Ends of the World: A Review of 'The World's End'

When it comes to imagining the end of the world, we often turn to Hollywood's offerings. However, not all epics are created in Tinseltown, as evidenced by Svart Krabba Black Crab, which delivers a captivating narrative rooted in realism and finesse. The Left Behind movie series also has its moments, particularly the third installment, which I found to be especially thrilling, despite its unfinished nature and the untapped potential for animating the second coming.

While some might argue that the end of the world must involve catastrophic events and violence, there are compelling narratives that stray from this trope. If we are to consider films with apocalyptic themes, it's worth noting that many are shy about depicting the full extent of the frenzy depicted in Revelation. From hailstones weighing 100 lbs. to the conversion of waters to blood, none of these calamities have made it to the screen. Where are the swarms of locusts and the sting of those marked by seals?

A2A: 'Volcano'

A2A, let me share another unique take on the end-of-the-world scenario, the hilarious and ridiculous Volcano. This movie, set in a town that seems familiar to the director's immediate surroundings, offers a homegrown perspective on a natural disaster. It's a story that feels both alien and close to home, as it highlights the stark disparity between rich and poor in the face of impending doom.

While Volcano doesn't meet the technical requirements of an end-of-the-world movie through its narrative, it raises valid questions about survival and societal collapse. Even a sour note can offer insights into the human condition and resilience.

Edgar Wright's Cinematic Universe

If I were to recommend a quintessential end-of-the-world movie, The World's End by Edgar Wright would top the list. This film, the last in the Cornetto trilogy, is a perfect blend of nostalgia, alcoholism, friendship, and high stakes.

The World's End is set in the fictional town of Newton Haven, where a group of five friends—Gary King, Andy Knightly, Steven Prince, Peter Page, and Oliver Chamberlain—decide to complete a long-standing pub crawl on the last day of high school. The story takes a dramatic turn as years pass, and the characters find themselves under new circumstances: Andy, Steven, Peter, and Oliver have achieved success, whereas Gary is a recovering alcoholic on a suicide watch list.

The narrative is intricately woven with references, foreshadowing, and Easter eggs, making it a rich watch. Edgar Wright's ability to seamlessly integrate soundtracks with the action is a hallmark of his talent. Each visit to the 12 pubs is filled with meaning and symbolism, adding depth to the story.

The Pubs and Their Meanings

Here’s a list of the 12 pubs visited in The World's End, each with its own significance:

1. The First Post

The first pub in the quest, formerly an old post office, serves as the beginning of the journey.

2. The Old Familiar

This pub is similar to the first, prompting Oliver to make the point about the “Starbucks treatment” of robbing smaller pubs of their unique charm.

3. The Famous Cock

A nod to Gary, who was thrown out of this pub due to a fight. The pub even has his photo on the wall, adding a personal touch.

4. The Cross Hands

This is where the friends encounter robots or "blanks" and fight them in the washroom.

5. The Good Companions

In the wake of witnessing bizarre occurrences at the previous pub, the friends decide to continue the quest. Cue to the beat of the Alabama song by The Doors.

6. The Trusty Servant

At this pub, the friends meet Reverend Green, Michael Smiley, a supplier of "herbal" refreshments. Gary confides in Green, and the latter hints at being a trusted servant. Oliver turns into a blank.

7. The Two-Headed Dog

Oliver's sister Sam makes a dramatic appearance, helping her friends fend off those trying to turn her into a blank.

8. The Mermaid

While the pub hosts a party, the friends encounter three high school girls who try to lure Andy, Gary, and Peter. A conspiracy theorist, Basil David Bradley, tells Steven about the strange happenings in the town.

9. The Beehive

The friends meet their teacher, Mr. Shepherd, played by Pierce Brosnan, who suggests they turn into blanks to work together. Steven discovers that Oliver is a blank.

10. The King's Head

This location features an image of Gary King in a king's attire, where the group begins to disintegrate and Andy questions Gary's irresponsible behavior.

11. The Hole in the Wall

Steven rams Gary's car into the wall, allowing them to escape.

12. The World's End

A straightforward yet ominous title, symbolizing the fate of the characters and their world.

While the first movie of the Cornetto trilogy, Shaun of the Dead, is about zombies, and Hot Fuzz pays homage to action movies, The World's End offers a unique, introspective look at the unrelenting quest for friendship and identity in the face of an uncertain future.