Love and Monsters

Available on Netflix.

Directed by Michael Matthews, Love and Monsters is set in a dystopian future, 7 years after a catastrophic attempt to destroy an earth bound asteroid caused the Monsterpocalypse, turning millions of the earth’s creatures into human eating monsters. The remains of humanity are driven into underground colonies and in one of these we find Joel. An average 20 something, who feels that he doesn’t make enough of a contribution and is alone until he reconnects with his pre-monsterpocalypse girlfriend Aimee. After a monster breach of his colony he decides he can wait no more and is going to risk his life making an 85 mile, seven day trek across the surface to be reunited with his true love.

What a fun surprise this was, it’s a strange cross between Stand by Me, Predator and Jumanji. There are lot’s of recognisable story elements on show, a dog companion, wise experienced surface dwellers who share crucial survival tips and a zen like robot who with it’s last battery power shares with Joel what’s really important in life. All of it done with a fun charm.

While the story arc is predictable, that doesn’t really matter, the adventure bits are adventurey. The humour is plentiful and keeps it light and the touching moments are just right.

Dylan O’Brien carries the film well as the unlikely hero Joel, fully believable throughout his journey of discovery and is well supported by those he meets on the way, Michael Rooker and Ariana Greenblatt as Clyde and Minnow particularly.

While it’s not perfect and drags a little in the final act, it’s a minor criticism. At its core there are nice messages about the importance of family and tackling the unknown, delivered as a fun “coming of edge” adventure told in a light and humorous way.