Thorns & Thistles at the End of the World (2023) User Reviews

A Well Done Indie

[baccaruda1 · 7/10 · 20 February 2024]

So. In end times, what happens to the humanity of ordinary people? Do people revert to the law of the jungle, or do they do their best to retain some semblance of decency and empathy in the face of impending doom? This film addresses these questions, as the main characters, Paul & Felicity try to come to terms with grief and mental illness even as the ultimate conclusion of mankind plays as a subplot. This film looks at the apocalypse on an indie level, with the human stories that continue to evolve despite what the universe has in mind for earth. It's a story that is earnest in its approach, as there is no humor to be found, given the heft of its subject. The opening scene sets the tone, as an acquaintance of main character Paul, deliberately ends his life, rather than face life on earth's ultimate conclusion. Ultimately though, it's the ability to find and embrace forgiveness that is one of the defining features of this film, just as forgiveness is a hallmark of an evolved human being. Its a smaller story of two people doing the best, regardless of the enormity of their larger reality. Overall, a well-made indie film with solid acting, directing and writing, plus a very polished look. It's a film that should inspire conversation, and for that alone, it's a recommended watch from me.

A Powerful, Heart Wrenching Drama

[kjs1144 · 8/10 · 22 February 2024]

Thorns & Thistles at the End of the World is a very powerful and heart wrenching drama. The story is set against an apocalyptic backdrop and we follow the story of a man's life as he has to deal with his estranged wife, and all of the unresolved issues he has from that relationship. The filming locations in this film are beautiful. And the camerawork and cinematography are excellent. The story is very engaging and it really builds throughout the film. I enjoyed the use of flashbacks to tell the story, as it really created tension and mystery. Director Aaron Kamp did a fantastic job with this film. And if you enjoy this, you should also watch another one of his films, Hidden Light!

A good movie about the struggles of loss in a marriage.

[cunbc · 8/10 · 12 March 2024]

This was a good one. I thought they were hitmen at first but as the story progressed, I understood the setting that they were in. I don't want to give away any spoilers. The biblical part of this story was subtle and not preachy. The pacing was good. When couples face a huge loss it can tear the union apart. I loved to see the outcome and how the husband had to own up to his part and not play the blame game, like most men do. You will have to watch the story to see what the actual issue was about. The discovery of the problem is also what makes this an interesting story. The acting was good. I wish there was a little more emotional grab. That is one of my only critiques. The other is a little more context of the time to explain the dead bodies and the officer with his gun on backwards. Overall, good movie.

Beautiful story of hope

[photo-859-401631 · 9/10 · 24 February 2024]

This is an indie drama that sneaks up on you with its storytelling and message of hope. Paul, the lead played by Jeremy Levi, lives in a quiet Australian seaside city during the final days of the world. It is not an apocalyptic landscape but people are giving up and resigned to their uncertain fates. Besides the anxiety of the situation, Paul's institutionalized wife returns into his life which brings up their shared grief and guilt over a past tragedy. Jeremy Levi as Paul and Vivienne Marshall as his wife Felicity give fine performance as people with a shared history and the confusion, grief, and accompanying guilt of their shared tragedy. Paul wears a figurative crown of thorns as he wonders about his responsibilities and possible paths towards redemption.

The mature script is smart about human emotions and doesn't give any character an easy out from their situation. The pacing is slow and the drama mainly internal but Aaron Kamp's direction remains tightly-focused on the drama that leads to an instructive and cathartic conclusion. Even as the world ends this beautiful film suggest the importance of faith and hope.

Takes you by surprise with its story and hopeful message.

[mettlesetdesigner · 8/10 · 4 March 2024]

"Thorns & Thistles at the End of the World" is a cool indie drama that takes you by surprise with its story and hopeful message. It's a well-done indie flick with great acting, directing, and writing, and it looks really polished. I think it's worth watching just for the conversations it could spark. These are dark times we are living in and this movie reflects this fact beautifully. The pace is a bit slow, and the drama is more in the characters' heads, but Aaron Kamp's direction keeps it all interesting until the end. Even with the world falling apart in the story, this movie reminds you how important faith and hope are. Check it out!

Indie Drama Set Against Apocalypse

[JeromeV79631 · 8/10 · 8 March 2024]

A powerful drama that explores the last days of humanity, and the choices we ultimately make. We follow the main character, Paul (played by Jeremy Levy), as he struggles to understand the circumstances that led to a great tragedy. His life has not been the same since. Visually, some gorgeous exterior cinematography, and nice use of wide-angle lenses to draw you close to the characters. Sound design and music score are quite evocative in painting the picture of this desolate, largely unpopulated world. While we are left to wonder about the how and why of what's happening, the real focus is on the interactions between characters, and how each one chooses to cope with their situation. There are some elements of faith and religion. Director Aaron Kamp has a solid hand with his actors and creates an ominous vibe from beginning to end. It has a positive message for us all.