The Endless (2017)

The Endless (2017): An Intriguing Blend of Sci-Fi, Horror, and Mystery

Overview:

The Endless is a captivating and thought-provoking film released in 2017 that effectively merges elements of science fiction, horror, and mystery. Directed and co-written by the talented duo Aaron Moorhead and Justin Benson, this film brings a fresh perspective to the supernatural thriller genre. Known for their unique storytelling style, the team also stars in the film, giving it a personal and intimate touch. The Endless challenges viewers to explore complex themes such as time loops, cult dynamics, and the nature of reality, making it far more than a conventional genre film.

Plot Summary:

The story revolves around two brothers, Justin and Aaron, who reunite after receiving a mysterious video message from the cult they had previously escaped a decade earlier. This enigmatic message draws them back to the remote desert commune from which they fled, prompting them to revisit their past and confront old wounds.

Upon returning, they find that the group still practices its bizarre rituals and maintains a tight-knit community, but the brothers soon realize that something is profoundly off about the cult's reality. As they delve deeper, they encounter strange phenomena involving time anomalies and unsettling supernatural occurrences that force them to question everything they know about the world and themselves.

Main Cast:

• Justin Benson as Justin – one of the two brothers who returns to the cult, grappling with skepticism and unresolved trauma.
• Aaron Moorhead as Aaron – the other brother, whose loyalty and curiosity fuel much of the story’s progression.
• Ever Carradine as Harriet – a member of the cult whose presence raises questions and tensions within the group.
• Matt DeCaro as Arthur – the cult leader who embodies enigmatic and controlling forces that govern the community.

Direction and Writing:

The film is directed by Aaron Moorhead and Justin Benson, who also co-wrote the screenplay. Their collaborative effort in both writing and directing helps maintain a consistent vision throughout the film, striking a balance between intimate character development and mind-bending conceptual ideas. Their approach emphasizes emotional realism within a fantastical framework, strengthening the narrative’s impact.

Both Moorhead and Benson are known for their creative storytelling techniques, often blending genres and defying expectations. In The Endless, their unique method of marrying indie filmmaking sensibilities with complex speculative fiction themes has garnered critical praise.

Genres and Style:

The Endless is primarily an indie science fiction and horror movie that incorporates elements of mystery and psychological thriller. It is a genre-defying film that keeps audiences engaged through atmospheric tension, enigmatic storytelling, and emotional depth. Instead of relying heavily on jump scares or traditional horror tropes, it builds suspense through existential dread and the unpredictable nature of time loops and supernatural forces.

Cinematography:

The film showcases stark and haunting desert landscapes, which not only enhance the eerie atmosphere but also symbolize isolation and the passage of time. The cinematography effectively uses lighting and camera movements to immerse viewers in the unsettling environment experienced by the characters.

Reception and Impact:

Critically, The Endless was praised for its originality, smart screenplay, and compelling performances by Moorhead and Benson. Its immersive storytelling and creative handling of complex themes have earned it a dedicated following among fans of indie horror and sci-fi. The movie’s success helped solidify the directors’ reputation as ambitious storytellers capable of crafting intellectually stimulating genre films on modest budgets.

While the film might not cater to mainstream expectations due to its cerebral and slow-burning nature, it is celebrated for pushing boundaries and offering philosophical insights on time, belief systems, and free will.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, The Endless (2017) stands out as an exceptional piece of independent cinema within the action and sci-fi horror domain. Aaron Moorhead and Justin Benson’s roles as directors, writers, and lead actors create a cohesive and immersive narrative experience. Their thought-provoking story challenges audiences to rethink reality and question the nature of their beliefs.

For viewers seeking a film that combines suspenseful storytelling with mind-bending science fiction concepts, The Endless delivers an unforgettable journey into the unknown. Its blend of emotional depth, atmospheric tension, and intelligent plot makes it a must-watch for fans of genre cinema seeking something original and compelling.

IMDb Link: The Endless (2017) on IMDb

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