Leave the world behind — Unraveling the apocalypse

Survival, suspense, and the unknown in the modern world

“Some say the world will end in fire, Some say in ice.” — Robert Frost, “Fire and Ice”

I just watched the Netflix film ‘Leave the World Behind,’ produced by the Obamas, and frankly, it left me a bit rattled — but not for the reasons you might think.

Okay, I’m not one to write movie reviews, but this film compelled me to share my thoughts, especially in light of some recent blog posts where I’ve alluded to the idyllic notion of a life away from technology’s grip. I usually have little time for movies, but after grading the final essay for a university class, I collapsed onto my couch. Netflix suggested this film, and without the patience to search for another, I simply clicked ‘play.’

In typical fashion, I scoured the internet for more information about the movie, ensuring that the cast wouldn’t be a turn-off for me — I find it hard to enjoy films where actors bring too much of their personal life drama onto the screen. Julia Roberts, Mahershala Ali, Ethan Hawke, Myha’la, Kevin Bacon — sounded like a solid lineup. Let’s do it!