In the Netflix release Leave the World Behind, directed by Sam Esmail, the audience is taken on a gripping journey of uncertainty and tension. The film opens with Julia Roberts’ character, Amanda Sanford, expressing her disdain for people, setting the stage for an impromptu family getaway that quickly unravels as the world around them falls into chaos.
The story follows the Stanfords—Amanda, her husband Clay (played by Ethan Hawke), and their children Archie and Rose—who find themselves at a vacation rental. Their idyllic retreat takes a dark turn when they witness an oil tanker heading towards the shore, prompting a frantic escape. The suspense heightens when the owners of the rental, GH Scott (Mahershala Ali) and his daughter Ruth, unexpectedly return, claiming a citywide blackout forced them to cut their trip short.
The film skillfully weaves a tale reminiscent of M. Night Shyamalan’s storytelling style, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. The racial tension between the two families becomes a significant subtext, adding an unnerving layer to the unfolding displacement. Cinematographer Tod Campbell masterfully captures the urgency of unpredictable situations.
The central conflict revolves around Amanda’s distrust of the newcomers, sensing that something more sinister is at play. The film tackles themes of emergency, racial tension, and the abnormality of the situations that arise. However, it falls short in delving deeper into the characters’ histories, leaving certain aspects feeling one-dimensional.
Julia Roberts delivers a standout performance as Amanda, portraying her self-centered arrogance convincingly. Ethan Hawke complements her energy with a dry sense of agency, but it is Mahershala Ali who steals the scenes, bringing nuanced unease to his character.
“Leave the World Behind” remains ambitious in its design, maintaining a prevailing sense of dread throughout. The film raises important questions that could have landed more effectively with a less defensive approach in its treatment. The ending, while impish, leaves lingering questions and adds a layer of ambiguity to the narrative.
“Leave the World Behind” takes audiences on a cinematic rollercoaster filled with ambiguity, tension, and thought-provoking themes. The film’s ambitious storytelling, coupled with strong performances, makes it a compelling watch that leaves viewers with lingering questions about the nature of emergencies and the complexities of human relationships.
