“Love and Monsters” (2020) is an adventure-action film infused with humor and romance, set in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity must fight to survive against a landscape overrun by giant monsters. The movie skillfully delivers messages about courage, growth, and the meaning of love in the harshest of circumstances.
Detailed Plot Summary
Seven years ago, Earth faced the threat of a massive asteroid. While humanity successfully destroyed the asteroid, the aftermath was catastrophic. Chemicals from the missiles and asteroid rained down, mutating animals and insects into giant, bloodthirsty creatures. Humans were forced to hide underground, living in bunkers to avoid being hunted by these monsters.
Joel Dawson (played by Dylan O’Brien) is a timid and clumsy young man who lives in an underground bunker with a group of survivors. While Joel is loved by the people in the bunker, he feels out of place because he lacks the courage and skills to face the outside world. Everything changes when Joel reconnects with Aimee (Jessica Henwick), his girlfriend from before the disaster, who now lives in another bunker 80 miles away.
Despite knowing that the journey to Aimee is incredibly dangerous, Joel resolves to leave the safety of his bunker to reunite with the woman he loves. Armed with a crude map, a bow, and sheer determination, Joel sets off on a solo journey across the monster-infested land.
A Journey of Growth
Throughout his journey, Joel faces numerous life-threatening challenges. He encounters terrifying giant monsters, including massive ants, glowing snails, and bloodthirsty worms. Along the way, he befriends a loyal dog named Boy, who becomes a clever and empathetic companion. Boy not only helps Joel avoid danger but also serves as an emotional anchor during his perilous journey.
Joel also meets Clyde (Michael Rooker), an older survivalist, and Minnow (Ariana Greenblatt), a brave and resourceful young girl. They teach Joel how to survive in the new world, from fighting techniques to overcoming fear. With their guidance, Joel gradually grows more confident, realizing he is stronger and more capable than he ever believed.
Love and Change
After overcoming countless obstacles and terrifying creatures, Joel finally reaches Aimeeโs bunker. However, he discovers that everything has changed. Aimee is no longer the girl from his memories; she has become a strong leader, protecting her group of survivors. Their relationship is not what Joel had hoped for, and he realizes that this journey was not just about finding love, but about finding himself.
Joel learns that the true value of love lies not only in seeking someone else but also in loving himself, appreciating what he has, and facing his fears to grow as a person.
Themes and Meaning
“Love and Monsters” is not just a story about battling giant creatures for survival. It is an inspiring tale of courage, hope, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. The monstrous creatures are not just enemies; they symbolize fears and challenges in life that everyone must confront.
With Dylan O’Brien’s charming performance, uniquely designed monsters, and a heartfelt story, “Love and Monsters” strikes a perfect balance between action, humor, and romance. The film concludes with the message that sometimes, the journey matters more than the destination, as it is the journey that helps us grow and discover our true selves.