How would mankind respond to a crisis of unimaginable proportions? This intriguing question forms the premise of the highly anticipated Netflix original movie, “Leave The World Behind“. Directed by Sam Esmail and featuring an award-winning ensemble cast, the film explores human behavior under extreme circumstances.
Based on Rumaan Alam’s critically lauded eponymous novel, the movie introduces us to the lives of Amanda and Clay, middle-class New Yorkers played by Julia Roberts and Ethan Hawke. Seeking escape from their bustling city lives, they plan a week-long getaway with their adolescent children in a plush Airbnb in Long Island. The online advertisement paints an alluring picture, promising an opportunity to metaphorically “leave the world behind”.
Their tranquil holiday, however, shatters abruptly when the house’s original proprietors, G.H. (Mahershala Ali) and Ruth Washington (Myha’la Herrold), knock at their door, requesting refuge due to an extensive blackout across the East Coast. With no access to the internet or mobile phones, the world seems plunged into an ominous darkness, suggesting a catastrophic event is underfoot.
The ensuing chaos unearths deep-seated prejudices as Amanda wrestles with her disbelief that an African-American couple could own such an opulent house, fearing a possible scam. In a time when unity should prevail over discrimination, the characters are forced to question their innate biases and find ways to adapt to their new reality.
Launch Date and Availability of “Leave The World Behind”
“Leave The World Behind” is scheduled to premiere on December 8, 2023. As a Netflix original, the film will be accessible via this streaming platform. As of now, there is no confirmation about a theatrical release, but considering Netflix’s track record with big-ticket movies, a limited big-screen release could be on the cards.
Sneak-Peek into “Leave The World Behind”
While the official trailer for the film is not yet available, Netflix’s 2023 sizzle reel provided a quick glimpse of “Leave The World Behind“. Julia Roberts, playing Amanda, voices her mistrust of the Washingtons, reflecting her deep-seated prejudices. The world is in chaos, with news broadcasts reporting a nationwide cyberattack and widespread power outages, amplifying Amanda’s fears.
Star-Studded Cast of “Leave The World Behind”
“Leave The World Behind” brings together a stellar cast. The role of Amanda, filled with complexities and prejudice, is portrayed by Academy Award-winning actress Julia Roberts. Mahershala Ali, a two-time Academy Award recipient, takes on the role of G.H. Washington, the affluent black owner of the Airbnb. Ali’s character brings news of the colossal blackout, disrupting Amanda and Clay’s idyllic vacation.
Ethan Hawke, known for his diverse choice of roles, portrays Clay, the father and husband whose protection of his family might not be as heroic as intended. Myha’la Herrold, Kevin Bacon, Farrah Mackenzie, and Charlie Evans complete the ensemble.
Delving Deeper into “Leave The World Behind”
Netflix’s official synopsis outlines the plot as a family holiday in Long Island interrupted by unexpected guests who bring news of a mysterious blackout. As the threat intensifies, both families must decide on their survival strategies while coming to terms with their place in a rapidly disintegrating world.
The Talented Crew Behind “Leave The World Behind”
“Leave The World Behind” boasts an impressive production team. The director of the film, Sam Esmail, is also responsible for adapting the script from the novel. Alam, the author of the novel, is on board as an executive producer. Producers include Esmail, Roberts, Chad Hamilton, Lisa Gillan, and Marisa Yeres Gill.
Netflix won the rights to this project after an intense bidding war with several big-name studios, including Apple and MGM. The novel was among Barack Obama’s Summer Favorites and was nominated for the 2020 National Book Award, which further raised the film’s anticipation.
Filming of “Leave The World Behind”
Filming for “Leave The World Behind” commenced in the Long Island region in April 2022, followed by additional shoots in Katonah, New York, the subsequent month.
Conclusion
With a fascinating premise, a compelling cast, and a skilled crew, “Leave The World Behind” seems destined to leave a mark on the audience. The film presents a critical analysis of human behavior in the face of potential annihilation, raising poignant questions about class, race, and privilege. While the world awaits its release in December 2023, the journey of these characters promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of humanity in times of crisis.
