It’s A Disaster [Celluloid Hero]

It's A Disaster (2012)

There have been plenty of end-of-the-world movies that are epic in nature. Aliens invade on a worldwide scale, zombies wipe out humanity with groups of survivors fighting back, natural disasters destroy major cities. "It's A Disaster" flips things around and shows what happens when a small group of people at a brunch party experience the end of the world.

Four couples are celebrating their monthly Sunday brunch. Seven of the people are long-time friends, but the eighth is a new member, dating one of the group. Things start off normal, drinks are served, personalities are exposed, and then some odd things happen. The television, internet, and phone service drop out, which causes some tension to flare, revealing a surprising development. Secrets are revealed, and the party immediately takes a serious turn.

The resulting tension is forgotten as the group realizes the outside world is falling down around them. Each member of the group reacts differently. Some are determined to survive, some accept the end, some want to bury the ill feelings, others want to hold the grudges. The reactions seem over-the-top, but I think after deeper reflection, they're fairly accurate representations of how people react in stressful situations.

The movie hinges on the ability of the cast to be believable, because there is no action or monsters or fighting or CGI to distract us. I was initially drawn to this because it stars David Cross, one of my favorite comedians. The rest of the cast features Julia Stiles and America Ferrera, along with a bunch of unknowns who look sort of familiar but not quite enough to remember where you've seen them. It works to have a lesser-known cast, because it makes it easier to believe their story.

If you like dark comedies with sharp writing and a good cast, it'll be worth your time to check this out.