“… But then the world ended…” narrates Joel Dawson (Dylan O’Brien) from the comfort of his colony, which is one of the many bunkers that humanity has since escaped to after monsters drove everyone still alive underground. After reconnecting with his high school girlfriend Aimee (Jessica Henwick) over the radio, Joel decides to leave his colony to set out on the dangerous journey of reuniting with her. Is it really necessary to say anything else about this movie to convince you to see it except that there’s Dylan O’Brien and an adorable stray dog named “Boy” as his co-star? 

Unlike some of its genre counterparts, Love and Monsters doesn’t take itself too seriously, and that’s what makes it fun. O’Brien, in his typical fashion, employs a sarcastic, dry sense of humour as his defence while he takes his place as the underdog who faces being the butt of every joke. This is a role that’s not unlike many he’s done in the past, but there’s a reason he fits so well into this mould: he seems to understand the balance between cracking jokes and knowing when to be serious, and his sincerity is what makes each of his characters so charming to watch, with Joel being no exception. He isn’t just the adorable little hedgehog after all, he’s stronger than everyone gives him credit for, and O’Brien continues to prove himself as a capable onscreen hero that makes everyone want to believe in not just true love, but the ability to survive. 

Michael Matthews’ imaginative post-apocalyptic comedy is equally entertaining and endearing, as it shines a light on the bravery and complete foolishness of people, where the end of the world came at the hands of humans, humans who despite surviving such a catastrophe, will still selfishly risk their lives for love. 

RATING: 4/5

INFORMATION

CAST: Dylan O’Brien, Jessica Henwick, Michael Rooker, Dan Ewing, Ariana Greenblatt

DIRECTOR:  Michael Matthews

WRITERS: Brian Duffield, Matthew Robinson

SYNOPSIS: Joel has been living underground ever since giant monsters took control. After reconnecting with his old girlfriend, Aimee, Joel begins his journey to reunite with her.