The only thing missing from 2020 is a solid end-of-the-world flick. Fortunately for us, Greenland came out just in time for the holidays and right before the New Year.
John Garrity (Gerard Butler), his estranged wife Allison (Morena Baccarin), and young son Nathan make a perilous journey to their only hope for sanctuary: Greenland.
What was originally described as a “sight to be seen” the world over, quickly became an extinction level event akin to the annihilation of the dinosaurs.
The film used the tried and true “government conspiracy” angle for direction and for the disaster at hand, it worked. As suspense was already building, it hit a fever pitch at John’s house, where neighbors had gathered to watch “the show.” John received an alert on his phone from the federal government, leaps and bounds above your typical amber alert. A level of unease swiftly overtook the room as nobody’s phone buzzed but John’s with instructions to follow.
The Garrity family experience both kindness and calamity while trying to survive the catastrophe that’s happening before their eyes. The film is loaded with action, suspense, and a few unnecessary lines to make sure you’re still paying attention.
There were subtle biblical elements sprinkled throughout the film as well. A verse read on the radio, a woman quoted the book of Revelation, and a scene that unfolded at the film’s conclusion mirrored a familiar moment had by Noah in the book of Genesis.
I give Greenland an 8 out of 10. It’s definitely worth seeing once and it’s hard to dislike Gerard Butler. Eager cinephiles can view the film today.
-Jon J.