Review of Goodbye World (2013) by Justin W — 12 Sep 2014

I'm not sure why I have such an interest in movies like this, whether about worldwide or national entropy, or dystopian, apocalyptic or post-apocalyptic. Maybe it's the hope to see some triumph of the human spirit. I question why I watch these kinds of movies because many make me question my faith in humanity and wonder about our future as a species. Hopefully, it's a movie that can bring a glimmer of hope.

I've skimmed over a number of reviews, and I think people miss the point. One major underlying theme to these kinds of films is that even amidst - and after - mayhem and collapse of life as we know it, people still manage to be bastards rather than stick together. OK, hanging out in a hot tub and getting high, not such a smart choice while these things are happening. I don't know, though, that anyone would do much different in that situation, other than offer medication the first time around when neighbors came to ask. They cut themselves off in the hopes that everything would blow over. They soon realized that it's easier to work together than to seclude themselves.

The intertwining personal relationships and seemingly pointless drama actually adds another layer. Again, amidst a crisis, people still have their history, inner turmoil, pride and opinions. Bonds are made and broken even in the most dire of situations. We break each other's trust and we gain others'. But, it didn't seem the most dire of situations, so it does fall a little flat as far as the story goes. Still, I don't think it takes a full government shutdown or a zombie apocalypse to test the human spirit and our ability to stick together.

I did like the subtle plot twists about the origin of the national (or world) crisis. It was a nice touch and was actually kind of funny. I like the idea of things going terribly wrong over a simple goof.

The story, as far as how these people ended up together is a little hazy, but altogether I enjoyed the overall story. This is my opinion, but I think it deserved at least 3 stars. Could have been better, but the acting seemed genuine enough to keep me interested.