Hope for Man, Hope For Film

Rating: 6/10 (8 February 2007)

Britain, 2027. Women are infertile. Society is collapsing. No more children are being born and the end of the world is nigh ("the last one to die, please turn out the light"). Theo (Clive Owen) joins a resistance group who have discovered that one of their members is pregnant. He now must go on a dangerous journey to the coast, so that the mother and the unborn child that hold the only hope for mankind can escape to a secret colony, dedicated to preserving the future of humanity.
With such an intriguing premise, this film at the very least cannot fail to be morally interesting. Although it never fully explains why women have become infertile, it is evident that it is the result of large-scale ecological factors, such as global warming and pollution of the rain forests. Although not a fast-paced film, the narrative holds together extremely well and rarely leaves time for boredom. It is also often very violent but always remains true to the realism of a British dystopia. I think this is predominantly due to Cuarón's outstandingly claustrophobic direction that makes the viewer utterly emphasise with Theo and follow his journey almost through his eyes. The acting is incredible from all parties, particularly a fun loving, yet serious portrayal from the great Michael Caine.
This film is superbly acted and displays an absorbing and extremely thought-provoking plot. This, coupled with the top-notch direction, makes this film a must-see for all serious film-goers. Although often an uncomfortable viewing, its bittersweet ending round things off to a tee and leaves the viewer with a poignant but thoroughly satisfied feeling.