Doomsdays

Doomsdays is an intriguing film from director Eddie Mullins that masterfully combines elements of comedy, drama, and post-apocalyptic cinema in a scenario that explores themes of anarchy, isolation, and societal disillusionment. Released in 2013, the movie stars Leo Fitzpatrick, Justin Rice, and Laura Campbell. With its distinctive style, the film engages viewers in a clever and consideration-provoking narrative that is as entertaining as it is profound.

The plot follows the journey of two eccentric and rebellious characters; Fred, played by Justin Rice, and Bruho, portrayed by Leo Fitzpatrick, who spiral into an unconventional lifestyle, drifting through the cool, forested landscapes of the Catskill Mountains. Rapacious and rebellious, the duo have taken up a lifestyle of 'house haunting.' Disenchanted by the potential destructive consequences of fossil fuel dependency, they take up residence in vacant homes, taking full advantage of the abundant resources left behind, while damaging the vehicles they encounter as a stand against oil consumption.

Fred and Bruho's co-dependency sustains them through their reckless adventures. Fred is youthful, carefree, and often makes light of their unusual circumstances, providing much of the film's humor, while Bruho is the complete opposite, a hardcore curmudgeon who carries a deep anxiety about the environmental fate of the world and tries to combat it in his own unconventional way. By damaging every car he comes across, he believes he is doing his part to save the world from ecological disaster.

As the plot progresses, the unconventional duo encounters other characters that are equally exceptional in their own ways. Teenager Jaidon, played by Brian Charles Johnson, stumbles across them and ends up joining their odd escapades. Later, privileged Reyna (Laura Campbell) crosses paths with them, and she also becomes entwined in their journey. The dynamic between the four forms an interesting juxtaposition of personalities and ideologies, and it's this team's interactions that shape much of the film's narrative.

Filmed in the lush forests and character-filled houses of the Catskill Mountains, Doomsdays visually enhances the themes of the film beautifully. The emptiness of the vacation homes is contrasted against the richness of the surroundings, underscoring the characters' detachment from convention and their alignment with nature. Director Eddie Mullins makes effective use of natural lighting and sharp cinematography to tell a story that is visually as well as conceptually captivating.

Both the narrative and the film's execution subtly blend elements of social commentary with post-apocalyptic imagery, ensuring the movie never descends into didacticism or heavy-handed portrait of socially challenged individuals. On the surface, their actions seem petty yet boldly anarchic, but as the narrative develops, it becomes a philosophical exploration of isolation, disillusionment, and freedom.

The performances are all nuanced and engaging. Fitzpatrick is especially impressive; with minimal dialogue, he communicates a great deal through his mannerisms, facial expressions, and physicality. Justin Rice adds charm and levity to the dynamic, while Laura Campbell and Brian Charles Johnson bring depth and interest to their roles.

Ultimately, Doomsdays, with its full-bodied characters and subtly powerful narrative, makes a vibrant social commentary. It's a movie that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining, offering humorous antics juxtaposed against a thoughtful reflection on the relationship between modern man, anarchy, society, and the environment. With strong performances and a compelling storyline, Doomsdays creates a cinematic experience that is not only pleasurable but also intellectually engaging.