From the guys who brought you Shaun of the Dead (2004), Hot Fuzz (2007) and Paul (2011)…That’s really all you need to know. If you’re a fan, then hustle on over to The World’s End. If you’re not into that particular genre – a strange, yet engaging brew of comedy, sci-fi adventure and satire – then you may want to take a pass. Here’s the gist:
Five middle-aged men decide to recreate the epic pub crawl that they started, but were not quite able to finish, some two decades earlier in their small, suburban hometown of Newton Haven in the United Kingdom. The so-called “Five Musketeers” embark on the mission at the behest of their old ringmaster Gary King (Simon Pegg), the only one of the group who hasn’t quite grown up and moved on. Gary is hellbent on completing “The Golden Mile” drinking marathon… one night, 12 pubs, 12 pints… with the final imbibing to take place at the aptly named “The World’s End”. Sounds simple enough – until you factor in the blue-blooded robots that have taken over the small town and seem determined to prevent Gary and his buddies from completing their mission. It’s not just about them and their drinkfest though. All of humanity may be at risk!
The World’s End delivers some laughs along with a shot or two of social commentary. It’s a bit of an acquired taste, but is easy enough to swallow, especially if you’re looking for an offbeat summer movie that adults – and older kids alike – can enjoy together. Cheers!