Apocalyptic narratives often walk a fine line between pessimism and optimism, and as someone who leans towards the latter, I find that films like ‘Leave the World Behind’ (2023) offer a curious preparation for the unthinkable. Unlike many of its genre counterparts that leave the cause of destruction ambiguous, this film dares to provide an explanation, making it a worthwhile investment. Mangoidiots gives it a Raw and it is available in Netflix.
Amanda Sandford (Julia Roberts) escapes the chaos of New York with her husband Clay and their kids to a secluded vacation rental. As they settle in, mobile and internet connections disappear. An unsettling event at the nearby beach sets the tone, initially suggesting a foray into supernatural horror, which, to my relief, unfolded differently.
The narrative unfolds at a deliberate pace, bordering on the tedious in its first act. Yet, it’s Julia Roberts’ compelling performance as a fiercely intelligent and protective mother, wary of outsiders, that anchors our attention. Mahershala Ali complements her with his portrayal of a suave businessman.
Set almost entirely within the confines of an isolated villa, the film cleverly uses this setting to heighten the sense of impending doom—a stark contrast to the bustling city life that could have diluted its impact. A tense confrontation with an armed survivor stands out, adding to the film’s atmosphere of uncertainty.
To me, this film evoked emotions similar to Bokeh (2017) and Save Yourselves! (2020), not in storyline but in the emotional undercurrents they share.
With a runtime of 140 minutes, Leave the World Behind (2023) may test your patience, but it’s a thought-provoking, hauntingly convincing apocalyptic tale that will linger in your mind long after the credits roll.
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