Seeking a Friend for the End of the World is a sufficiently entertaining, if uneven, film. Despite an interesting premise, Lorene Scafaria’s film lets viewers down with its second half.
With an astroid due to hit Earth, people are told to prepare for the end of the world. Dodge finds himself facing this alone after his wife leaves. Wanting to get back to her family, his neighbour Penny accompanies Dodge on his road trip…
Seeking a Friend for the End of the World mixes a number of different elements. The film is part dark comedy, part romance, using the device of a road trip. The premise is an intriguing one; with three weeks until the world ends, characters must decide how to spend their final days on the planet. This concept allows for comedy, as well as the romance angle.
The first half of Seeking a Friend for the End of the World is much stronger than the second half. The film begins with the appearance of a black comedy. It functions well in this guise, entertaining viewers with frequent humour. The second half is decidedly more serious. The comedy diminishes, and the focus shifts to a romantic narrative. This feels like a let down, as this half of the film is not as engaging as the first. Seeking a Friend would have been more successful if it had maintained the dark humour instead of opting for the romance.
Performances in the film are good. Steve Carell appears authentic in a role similar to others he has previously played. Keira Knightley is also believable as the ditzy Penny, performing better in this light-hearted role compared to some of the more dramatic parts she has portrayed.
Seeking a Friend for the End of the World is ultimately a bit disappointing as the saccharine outcome betrays what begins as a decent comedy movie.
Seeking a Friend for the End of the World is out on DVD and Blu-Ray from 5th November 2012.
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