'Love and Monsters': Heartwarming and Fun

I was charmed by the movie Love and Monsters (2020). Despite its dystopian themes, the movie is sweet and lighthearted, the perfect escape considering all the craziness that’s happening in the world right now.

The film is set in the not-so-distant future, when the world’s defense systems blow up an asteroid headed toward earth. Unfortunately, the fallout from the incident causes cold-blooded creatures to mutate into giant monsters, which then proceed to decimate mankind. Survivors must hide from the monsters in whatever shelter they can find.

Joel, the protagonist, was a normal teenager who loved to draw when the disaster occurred. He and his girlfriend were separated while fleeing with their families.

Seven years later, Joel lives in an underground bunker with several other people. Every day is a fight for survival. He’s no warrior—he freezes in crisis situations—but he does well enough as a cook.

One day, Joel manages to establish radio contact with his girlfriend Aimee, who lives in a colony several days’ hike away. Joel decides he wants to see Aimee again, even if it means braving the monsters. He makes friends along the way and finds adventure, and ultimately discovers himself.

The movie is well-made, and I’m already a fan of Jessica Henwick, who starred as Colleen Wing in Netflix’s Iron Fist series. Another bit of trivia: Henwick’s mother was from Singapore, where I’m originally from.

The monster effects were not cheesy at all. In fact, they were good enough for the movie to be nominated for an Academy Award for best visual effects.

I recommend Love and Monsters if you’re in the mood for heartwarming fun and adventure.