Premiered quietly over Christmas and has since gained recognition as a fan favorite. Featuring Adam Driver, Greta Gerwig, and Don Cheadle among others, the official IMDb synopsis describes the film as a portrayal of an American family grappling with mundane conflicts while exploring deeper questions about love, death, and the pursuit of happiness in an unpredictable world.
Naturally, viewers quickly realize the story is far from straightforward, leaving some pondering over the film’s ending. Let’s take a deeper look to clarify what transpired.
Themes of academic pressure and family secrets intertwine in this poignant narrative (Photo: White Noise/A24, NBGG Pictures, Heyday Films)Themes and Academic Life
The movie is divided into distinct sections, each connected by a focus on mortality. Initially, the story introduces Professor Jack Gadney (Driver), his wife Babette (Gerwig), and their children. Jack is an esteemed academic specializing in ‘Hitler studies’ at the College on the Hill, though an upcoming conference unsettles him due to his inability to speak German.
Meanwhile, Professor Murray Siskind (Cheadle), a colleague, is also under pressure, aiming to promote his lecture on Elvis studies. To drum up interest, he enlists Jack’s help, leading to a peculiar contest of bravado between the two. During this academic tension, Jack’s eldest daughter becomes suspicious of Babette, believing she’s misusing drugs that affect her memory.
The Toxic Event and Its Aftermath
Life in the suburbs takes a dramatic turn when a toxic airborne event disrupts the Gadney family’s routine. Forced to relocate to a quarantine facility, they encounter a group of simulated evacuation responders, or SIMUVAC.
This encounter sparks doubt about the authenticity of the incident. In the midst of the chaos, Jack realizes he was exposed to the toxic air and becomes consumed with anxiety over his health and impending mortality.
The Family’s Struggles at Home
After returning home, the family dynamics shift. Babette admits to participating in a study for a drug called Dylar, intended to alleviate the fear of death. Her involvement leads to emotional withdrawal and a dependency on the drug.
Although the study ends, Babette remains addicted to Dylar and begins trading sexual favors with the mysterious Mr. Gray to obtain it. Over time, the drug’s effects cause her confusion, making her unable to differentiate between words and the objects they represent.
Confrontation with Mr. Gray
Jack stumbles upon an advertisement for Dylar in a newspaper, prompting him to track down Mr. Gray with the intention of killing him. When Jack finds him, he discovers Mr. Gray is also addicted, suffering the same cognitive disorientation as Babette.
In a fit of desperation, Jack shoots Mr. Gray but stages the scene to resemble a suicide. However, Mr. Gray survives and retaliates, wounding both Jack and Babette when she enters the room.
Resolving Fear and Moving Forward
This chaotic episode serves as a turning point for Jack, helping him confront his fear of death. In an act of reconciliation, he and Babette take Mr. Gray to a hospital.
The closing sequence shows the couple at a supermarket, engaging in lighthearted conversation with Murray about the past year. The film concludes with a surreal scene of characters joyfully dancing and walking toward the checkout lanes.
