In the realm of multi-genre cinema, Sam Esmail's latest directorial venture Leave The World Behind invites audiences into a suspenseful blend of sci-fi, mystery and psychological thriller set against the backdrop of a dystopian near future. Drawing parallels with Noah Baumbach's 2022 White Noise or Jordan Peele's Nope of the same year, the film unfolds a narrative that keeps viewers guessing from start to finish, but not without moments of frustration.
The plot unfolds as a family embarks on a getaway to a luxurious rental mansion, only to have their tranquil retreat disrupted by the unexpected arrival of two strangers seeking refuge from a growing cyberattack that plunges the world into terror. The movie weaves a web of enigma and tension, mirroring the uncertainty of a collapsing world.
What sets Leave The World Behind apart is its deliberate pacing and reluctance to unveil the full scope of its narrative until the final third of the film. This deliberate withholding of information creates an atmosphere of suspense, with speculative dialogue among the cast providing tantalising hints about the unfolding catastrophe. The filmmakers masterfully balance the need for suspense without alienating the audience, resulting in a viewing experience that is intriguing.
The heart of the film lies in the portrayal of a vacationing family thrust into a nightmarish scenario. Ethan Hawke and Julia Roberts, as Clay and Amanda Sandford, deliver compelling performances portraying a married couple with a complex dynamic. The film navigates their interactions, revealing layers of control and laid-back attitudes that add depth to their characters. Roberts' departure from her usual likable roles adds a refreshing complexity to the narrative.
Mahershala Ali commands attention in his role as G.H. Scott, one of the mysterious strangers. The script masterfully navigates between revealing his character's identity and shrouding him in doubt, creating an enigmatic presence that adds to the overall tension. The interplay between the Sandford family and the mysterious visitors becomes the crux of the film, heightening the suspense with every stilted dialogue and cringe-inducing exchange.
The cinematography deserves special mention, as it skilfully captures both landscapes and nuanced performances. The use of unsettling camera angles, including 180-degree rotations, contributes to the overall discomfort and enhances the visual experience. These shots, combined with patient editing, focus attention on the characters' small movements, body language and dialogue, creating a visually stunning and emotionally resonant film.
Clocking in at around two hours and twenty minutes, Leave The World Behind maintains a constant undercurrent of terror. The film succeeds in keeping audiences on edge, even in moments when the plot feels elusive. However, the unresolved ending leaves a lingering sense of dissatisfaction. While not the most frustrating conclusion, it somewhat diminishes the impact of the build-up, leaving viewers with a feeling of unfulfilled anticipation.
Despite its imperfections, the movie presents thought-provoking and eerie concepts. The ensemble cast delivers exceptional performances, and the haunting atmosphere successfully unnerves the audience. If the goal was to create a sense of disquiet and uncertainty, the film undeniably achieves it. Nevertheless, the unresolved elements may leave some viewers craving a more conclusive and satisfying resolution, preventing the film from reaching perfection. In the end, Leave The World Behind offers a gripping journey into dystopian uncertainty, with moments of brilliance that linger long after the credits roll.
Mahershala Ali as G.H. Scott.
- Leave The World Behind
- Directed by Sam Esmail
- Starring Julia Roberts, Mahershala Ali, Ethan Hawke
- Now streaming on Netflix
