Pros
- Science fiction horror done in an interesting way
- Explores the fragility and the persistence of the human will
- Movie isn’t quite what one would expect with science fiction horror
Cons
- Physics or dynamics of the phenomena not really explained in the movie, so audiences just have to accept everything as is
- A bit of a slow start
The Endless has an interesting take on the memory, time, and paranormal mystery that takes place in a remote community. Science fiction fans will enjoy the mystery explored in the film, and its exploration of psychological horror raises questions about the motivations of the force behind it all.
Plot
Brothers Aaron and Justin revisit the cult they grew up in and discover that their visit to Camp Arcadia is different from the memories they had of the place while growing up. They’re soon caught up in Camp Arcadia and have to learn its secret in order to survive and escape.
Characters
The two protagonists are brothers Aaron and Justin who were former members of a cult.
Setting
The movie takes place at Camp Arcadia, a commune located somewhere out in some desert.
The Endless Review
The plot and structure for The Endless was very well done, though I felt that the details and acting were both lacking at some points. The conclusion of the movie is satisfying, and it makes audiences question their own lives: the movie itself can be a metaphor for the monotony of life. People wake up, go to work, go home, and then go to sleep. The only brief reprieve, for some, occurs over the weekend, until the whole process repeats itself again. Some writers have portrayed this life as a kind of hell, though
There are some interesting scenes that immediately raise the interest and mystery of the film. The first scene that comes to mind is the tug of war. Other mysteries, like the photograph and the vague hints about the moon, all add to the mystery and intrigue of the plot and movie.
Indeed, as the movie progresses, it captures attention, making audiences question what the heck is going on. One strange incident after another is revealed, and a pattern emerges that provides some clues.
The pacing of the movie feels a little slow, and there were moments in the beginning that I didn’t care much for. For instance, the brothers’ disenchantment with their lives isn’t particularly unique—so many people are unhappy and feel trapped in their lives. This theme is explored in various ways throughout the movie. Luckily, the film moves away from such banal examples.
My favorite aspect of The Endless would have to be the psychological exploration of the victims. We see how different people deal with the knowledge of their situation. There’s a kind of indifference revealed through the characters, but despite the seemingly hopeless situation, they still struggle. That they still fight back speaks more to the power of the human mind (though I wonder if a resignation would free them).
There isn’t much psychological horror when it comes to science fiction movies. Too many movies include superfluous action, graphics, or tangible monsters to convey terror. The Endless doesn’t go this route, opting for knowledge instead. While the ending is satisfying, it doesn’t quite answer the underlying question of, “What’s going on?” But I’m okay with that.
