Do Not Expect Too Much from the End of the World: A Film Review

A Marathon of a Movie with Mixed Results

An epic runtime doesn't always equate to epic entertainment.

Radu Jude's latest satirical offering, "Do Not Expect Too Much from the End of the World," clocks in at an intimidating 163 minutes. While such an extended length often suggests an ambitious narrative scope, it can also be a cause for concern, especially when the film's premise appears relatively straightforward.

Indeed, Jude's satire revolves around a group of actors rehearsing a play based on the life of a controversial philosopher. As the rehearsal unfolds, tensions rise and the lines between fiction and reality blur, leading to a climax at a Nazi-themed party.

While the film boasts strong performances from its ensemble cast, including Ilinca Manolache, Ovidiu Pîrsan, Nina Hoss, and Dorina Lazar, its excessive runtime becomes a burden. The first half of the film, focused on the rehearsal process, drags at times, with scenes feeling repetitive and drawn out.

However, the film finds its rhythm in the second half, as the actors delve deeper into the play and their own personal dramas. The satire becomes more incisive, targeting political hypocrisy, social conformity, and the dangers of historical revisionism.

Ultimately, "Do Not Expect Too Much from the End of the World" is a film that requires patience and a willingness to go along for the ride. While its length may test some viewers, those who stick with it will find moments of brilliance amidst the tedium.