Awake

Awake is a riveting science fiction thriller, released in 2021, that captivates viewers with its intriguing storyline and remarkable performances. The movie creates a universe where a global catastrophe transpires, turning existence as we know it upside down and plunging all of humanity into chaos. The intriguing plot centres around an extraordinary incident which inexplicably takes away mankind's ability to sleep. Directed by Mark Raso, the film boasts a stunning cast including Gina Rodriguez, known for her role in "Jane the Virgin," forexample, alongside other talented stars such as Ariana Greenblatt and Lucius Hoyos, both known for their stellar performances in their respective domains.

Awake catapults us into a dystopian world, where a sudden global event wipes out all electronics and takes sleep away from humans. Imagine the ramifications of a society where sleep is elusive and the human brain is pushed past its limits. Restlessness, hallucinations, rapid cognitive deterioration — a devolving world that's spiralling towards madness, or perhaps even its end. This grim reality sets the unnerving tone for this movie. In a universe teetering on the edge of chaos, sleep becomes the new Gold Rush — a commodity more valuable than anything else, and the key to humanity's survival.

At the heart of this tormented world is our protagonist, former soldier Jill Adams, essayed by the effortlessly brilliant Gina Rodriguez. A stoic figure with a complex past, Jill is a single mother, struggling with her own demons and the challenges of raising her two kids, Matilda and Noah. Matilda, played by Ariana Greenblatt, is a determined and intelligent young girl, who shares a strained relationship with her mother. Lucius Hoyos portrays Noah, Jill's sensitive and vulnerable teenage son, always trying his best to make sense of the dynamics around him. Amid the widespread crisis, each character's journey forms a critical part of the overarching narrative, shaping the emotional contours of the movie.

As the crisis deepens, Jill finds herself struggling to keep her family safe amid the chaos. While most people descend into madness from insomnia, an interesting revelation is made — Jill's daughter, Matilda, can still sleep, making her an object of interest and potential respite from the ongoing turmoil. Comprehending the gravity of her special power becomes the spine of the plot, turning the narrative into a high-stakes race against time. Meanwhile, Jill also becomes the glue holding her family together, fighting to protect them and leading them through a world on the brink of annihilation.

Throughout this nerve-wracking journey, relationships are put to the test and characters are pushed to their humanly limits, as the film explores various themes- fragility of civilization, survival instincts, the dynamics of a dysfunctional family, and the lengths one would go to protect their loved ones. Mark Raso's direction, coupled with the breathtaking performances by the lead actors, creates a palpable sense of fear, exhaustion and desperation, truly embodying the frightening reality of this catastrophic societal collapse.

Awake is a beautifully shot film, with each scene carefully crafted to enhance the story's unsettling aura. The visual photography gives a chilling, gritty realism to the world, perfectly capturing the collective fatigue that hangs heavy in the air. Coupled with an evocative musical score, it amplifies the tense, eerie mood that permeates the movie.

Being quintessentially a gritty, end-of-the-world sci-fi movie, Awake delves into a unique and novel twist in the genre, shedding light on humanity's survival in an unpredictable and chaotic world. The film unflinchingly shows the collapse of society — aggression, anarchy, helplessness, vulnerability — and does so through a gripping narrative that keeps audiences at the edge of their seats. This brooding tale about a terrifying worldwide disaster is a thrilling blend of suspense, action, human emotion, and a profound exploration of sanity and survival.

Without revealing any spoilers, we can say that Awake takes us on a thrilling ride of continuous peaks and troughs, showcasing the depth of human resilience. In a roller-coaster ride of suspense and surprise, it keeps you invested and intrigued, ensuring that you're 'awake' in anticipation for what comes next. Though imbued with a grim tone, the movie also delves into rays of hope, potential salvation, and the power of love, making it a chilling, yet mesmerizing viewing experience. With each twist and turn, Awake makes sure that it keeps its promise — you won't sleep on this one!