SEEKING A FRIEND FOR THE END OF THE WORLD

When the news confirms that a fatal asteroid is headed straight toward Earth, Dodge (Steve Carell) is left alone after his wife flees in a panic. With nothing left to lose, he decides to embark on a road trip to find his high school sweetheart. Accompanying him is his neighbor (Keira Knightley), who unintentionally foils his plan by falling for him.    

Director/Writer: Lorene Scafaria (“Nick and Nora’s Infinite Playlist”)

Notable Actors: Adam Brody, Connie Britton, Rob Corddry, Patton Oswalt, Melanie Lynskey, T.J. Miller, Gillian Jacobs

ORIGINALITY RATING: High. There are plenty of post-apocalyptic films out there, but not many that address an impending end of the world scenario with the humor AND seriousness that this one does. The opening clip of the radio announcer makes me chuckle when he delivers the doomsday news and casually slips into a station promo immediately after. I also can’t help laughing when Dodge unsuccessfully tries to fire his cleaning lady. Since I’ve seen the movie already, I know that the trailer gives you a taste for many of its funniest and most touching moments. Thankfully it does this without showing you enough to spoil them.     

WHO SHOULD SEE IT:  Viewers who appreciate dark comedy mixed with serious emotional themes. If you think the looming apocalypse is a fascinating context for budding romance, then you should watch “Seeking a Friend for the End of the World.”