Ridley Scott’s latest film, set in a post-apocalyptic 2035, explores themes of survival, loss, and human connection against the backdrop of a world devastated by a flu pandemic. The story centers on Hig (Jacob Elordi), a former mechanic and pilot, and his Belgian Malinois dog, Jasper, as they navigate life at an abandoned airfield in Colorado alongside Bangley (Josh Brolin), a hardened ex-Marine. Together, they maintain a fortified compound stocked with essential supplies, fending off threats from marauding gangs known as the “Reapers,” a group of tattooed scavengers who combine violence with a striking, almost choreographed appearance.
The narrative follows Hig’s restlessness and desire for companionship, prompting him to leave the relative safety of the airfield in a dilapidated Cessna on a quest to find other survivors. Along the way, he encounters several characters including Cima (Margaret Qualley) and her protective father Pops (Guy Pearce), a Mennonite community led by Benedict Wong, and Allison Janney’s unsettling portrayal of a former flight attendant with a disturbingly vivid presence. These encounters highlight both the potential for human connection and the pervasive undercurrent of danger in the altered world.
Adapted from Peter Heller’s 2012 novel, the film has drawn attention for its contemplative tone and focus on small, everyday pleasures amid the devastation. Moments depicting morning coffee, cigarettes, and playing fetch with a dog underscore a quieter, more intimate vision of survival. Cinematographer Erik Messerschmidt’s sweeping aerial shots amplify the film’s sense of scope, contrasting with the often introspective pacing and understated drama.
Critics note that while the film’s cast brings depth to their archetypal roles—especially Elordi’s portrayal of a grieving, sensitive protagonist—the screenplay offers limited backstory and development for both heroes and villains, resulting in a narrative that sometimes feels meandering and lacking urgency. Despite occasional bursts of tension and action, including a finale marked by intense, bloodthirsty sequences, the overall mood leans toward melancholy reflection rather than high-stakes thriller.
The film’s blend of hopeful earnestness and quiet tension has elicited mixed responses. Some find it a warm meditation on grief and resilience, while others see missed opportunities in its more conventional elements and uneven pacing. Throughout, Scott’s directorial experience is evident, especially during moments when the story intensifies, but the movie ultimately remains a modest entry in the post-apocalyptic genre.
Currently in theaters, the film showcases a strong ensemble cast and striking visuals, offering a subdued but heartfelt vision of life after civilization’s collapse.