What Happened To Monday: A Netflix Movie Review

Hey guys! Let's dive into the thrilling world of Netflix and dissect the movie What Happened to Monday. This sci-fi action flick has a unique premise and some intense moments that make it a worthwhile watch. If you're wondering whether to add it to your watchlist, you've come to the right place. Let’s break it down!

Overview of What Happened to Monday

What Happened to Monday presents a dystopian future where overpopulation has led to a draconian policy: families are limited to one child. To enforce this, the Child Allocation Bureau, led by the ruthless Nicolette Cayman (Glenn Close), strictly monitors and controls the population. In this grim setting, Terrence Settman (Willem Dafoe) faces the challenge of protecting his seven granddaughters, all born from his deceased daughter. He decides to raise them in secrecy, naming them after the days of the week: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Each sister is allowed to go out into the world only on their designated day, posing as one person named Karen Settman (Noomi Rapace).

The Settman sisters manage to maintain this elaborate ruse for 30 years, living a carefully orchestrated life within the confines of their heavily fortified apartment. They share all experiences, ensuring that when one sister goes out, she can accurately report back to the others. This delicate balance is shattered when Monday mysteriously disappears after going to work. The remaining sisters must then venture out of their safe haven to uncover the truth behind Monday's disappearance, all while evading the relentless pursuit of the CAB. As they investigate, they begin to unravel a web of conspiracies and dark secrets that threaten not only their lives but the entire system they've been fighting against. The movie masterfully blends action-packed sequences with moments of intense emotional depth, making it a compelling watch from start to finish. The stakes are incredibly high, and the sisters' determination to survive and expose the truth keeps you on the edge of your seat.

Detailed Plot Summary

The plot thickens as each sister navigates the dangers outside their apartment, facing constant threats and moral dilemmas. Tuesday's resourcefulness, Wednesday's combat skills, Thursday's tech-savviness, Friday's analytical mind, Saturday's street smarts, and Sunday's compassionate nature each play a crucial role in their quest. They rely on each other's strengths to overcome obstacles and uncover the truth. As they delve deeper into the mystery of Monday’s disappearance, they discover that the reality of the CAB’s operations is far more sinister than they ever imagined. The sisters learn that Cayman’s true plan involves not just controlling the population, but eliminating children deemed “extra” through a hidden program, disguising it as cryosleep. This revelation adds a layer of horror to their already perilous situation, forcing them to confront the full extent of Cayman's cruelty.

The action sequences are brilliantly choreographed, with each sister utilizing her unique skills to evade and combat the CAB's forces. The tension escalates as they face betrayals from unexpected allies and make sacrifices to protect one another. The emotional core of the film lies in the bond between the sisters, who, despite their individual differences, are fiercely loyal and protective of each other. The film culminates in a showdown where the remaining sisters expose Cayman’s true agenda to the world, sparking a rebellion against the oppressive regime. In a climactic confrontation, they manage to broadcast the truth, revealing the horrifying reality of the CAB's methods. The ending leaves the audience with a sense of hope, as the population begins to question the system and fight for a more just future. The sacrifices made by the sisters resonate deeply, highlighting the importance of family and the courage to stand up against injustice.

The Cast and Their Performances

Noomi Rapace delivers a tour-de-force performance, embodying seven distinct characters with remarkable nuance. Each sister has her own personality, quirks, and fighting style, making them easily distinguishable. Rapace's ability to differentiate each character is truly impressive, showcasing her range and talent as an actress. Willem Dafoe provides a grounded and sympathetic portrayal of Terrence Settman, the grandfather who dedicates his life to protecting his granddaughters. His character is the emotional anchor of the film, providing a sense of stability and love in a bleak world. Glenn Close is chilling as Nicolette Cayman, portraying her as a cold and calculating villain who believes she is doing what is necessary for the greater good. Close's performance adds a layer of complexity to the film, making Cayman a memorable and formidable antagonist.

The supporting cast also delivers strong performances, adding depth and authenticity to the world of the film. Each actor brings their own unique energy to their role, enhancing the overall quality of the movie. The chemistry between the cast members is palpable, making the relationships feel genuine and believable. This ensemble performance elevates the film, making it a truly immersive and engaging experience. The actors' dedication to their roles shines through, creating a cohesive and compelling narrative that keeps viewers invested in the story.

Themes Explored in the Movie

What Happened to Monday explores several thought-provoking themes, including overpopulation, government control, identity, and the importance of family. The film raises questions about the ethical implications of extreme population control measures and the potential for abuse of power by government entities. The concept of identity is central to the story, as the sisters struggle to maintain their individual identities while posing as one person. This exploration of identity adds a layer of psychological depth to the film, as the sisters grapple with who they are both individually and collectively. The film also emphasizes the importance of family, highlighting the lengths to which the Settman sisters will go to protect each other. The bond between the sisters is the heart of the film, underscoring the idea that family is worth fighting for, even in the face of overwhelming odds.

The film also touches upon themes of sacrifice and resilience. The sisters are constantly forced to make difficult choices, often putting themselves in harm's way to protect one another. Their resilience in the face of adversity is inspiring, demonstrating the strength of the human spirit. The movie also explores the dangers of conformity and the importance of individuality. The sisters' ability to maintain their unique identities in a world that demands conformity is a testament to their strength and determination. These themes resonate deeply, prompting viewers to reflect on their own values and beliefs. The film's exploration of these complex themes makes it more than just an action movie; it's a thought-provoking commentary on society and the human condition.

Why You Should Watch It

If you're a fan of dystopian thrillers with strong female leads and plenty of action, What Happened to Monday is definitely worth watching. The movie's unique premise, combined with Noomi Rapace's outstanding performance, makes it a standout in the genre. The film's exploration of complex themes, such as overpopulation and government control, adds depth and substance to the story. The action sequences are well-choreographed and exciting, keeping you on the edge of your seat from beginning to end. The emotional core of the film, centered around the bond between the sisters, adds a layer of heart that makes the story even more compelling. Overall, What Happened to Monday is a well-crafted and entertaining movie that will leave you thinking long after the credits roll. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare for a thrilling ride!

Final Thoughts

What Happened to Monday is a gripping and thought-provoking sci-fi thriller that offers a unique take on the dystopian genre. With its compelling storyline, strong performances, and exploration of relevant themes, it’s a movie that stays with you. If you're looking for something exciting and intelligent to watch on Netflix, give this one a try. You won't be disappointed!