The initial scene involving sexual violence is undoubtedly jarring and potentially off-putting. However, it does serve as a brutal catalyst for the protagonist's hardening in a world devoid of societal norms. This early exposure to the harsh realities of the apocalypse does contribute to the development of a thick-skin necessary for survival, shaping her journey throughout the narrative.
Visually, the film frequently betrays its budgetary constraints. The makeup effects for the zombies, in particular, leave much to be desired and lack the convincing realism often found in more polished productions. Furthermore, the marketing might lead one to expect a more traditional zombie-centric narrative. In reality, End Times features a relatively limited number of actual zombie encounters.
Instead, the film gradually morphs into something akin to a modern-day western. The journey of the grizzled mercenary, played with a world-weary stoicism by Craig Stark, and the initially inexperienced young woman (Jamie Bernadette) across a desolate landscape evokes comparisons to classic westerns like Two Mules for Sister Sara. The dynamic between the two leads, with the older, more cynical figure reluctantly guiding the younger, more naive one, is a familiar trope, yet it provides a solid foundation for the unfolding events.
The narrative then shifts into a kibbutz stage, reminiscent of films where outsiders encounter seemingly utopian communities, such as Sirens. Here, the sanctuary offered appears inviting, but Stark's character, drawing on his harsh experiences, rightly suspects a darker undercurrent. This suspicion leads to a classic western trope of the hero returning to expose the truth and rescue the now-vulnerable woman.
The film's visual style, with its noticeable reliance on handheld camerawork alongside more traditional setups, likely reflects budgetary limitations. While the handheld approach occasionally adds a sense of immediacy, the imbalance can be somewhat distracting at times.
The performances of the two leads are commendable. Bernadette, in particular, delivers a powerful and transformative performance, culminating in a truly impressive display of acting in the film's final ten minutes. This late surge in her portrayal is a significant highlight and well worth waiting for. In contrast, the supporting cast's performances are less consistent.
It's interesting to note Craig Stark's prior, albeit smaller, roles in Quentin Tarantino films like The Hateful Eight and Django Unchained, which adds a touch of established talent to the low-budget affair. Additionally, the appearance of Dominique Swain, known for her controversial role in Lolita, as one of the camp inhabitants, provides a familiar face for cinephiles.
In conclusion, while End Times undoubtedly suffers from its low budget, particularly in its zombie makeup and occasional visual inconsistencies, it manages to deliver a reasonably compelling narrative. Its unexpected shift into a modern western with elements of social commentary, coupled with the strong performances of its leads – especially Bernadette's powerful final act – makes it an enjoyable watch despite its flaws. It's not a genre-defining masterpiece, but there's enough substance here to hold the viewer's attention and, as I found, to genuinely enjoy the experience. Available now on Tubi and other streaming services. This review penned in outline by me and tidied up by Gemini.
