This is the End

The big hook for This is the End surrounds the fact that all of the lead actors play themselves. Sure, they are somewhat false representations in order to have a varied cast. So they might as well have different names, but oh well. Written and directed by Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg, the plot is centered on Rogen and Jay Baruchel who attend a party at James Franco’s house. While there, the apocalypse occurs and many of the partygoers are sucked into a sinkhole. The survivors try to stay alive while barricaded in Franco’s house.

The cast is made up of Rogen’s usual crew with Baruchel and Franco joined by Jonah Hill, Danny McBride and Craig Robinson. But they’re not it. Other smaller roles are played by Michael Cera, Emma Watson, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Rihanna, etc. there are just too many to list. This rolodex full of celebrities is one of the big successes of the film. It’s as if this is the culmination of Rogen and Goldberg’s successful careers up to this point. It fits the tone of their past films with Rogen and Baruchel playing the BFFs who usually lead their scripts like “Superbad,” “Pineapple Express,” and others. Plus with familiar faces filling the entire lineup, it’s just fun.

The plot is simple with ad-libbed humor playing as pivotal a role as anything written in the script. But the movie actually deals with some more intricate themes below the surface. The concept of personalities changing with fame is featured prominently. While Christian concepts are readily mocked throughout, the cast must appeal to a “do unto others…” mentality to find redemption. This isn’t The Passion of the Christ but it’s actually more religiously based than you would expect. It is first and foremost a comedy and one of the funniest of the year. From Michael Cera’s over-the-top jerk to Channing Tatum’s startling cameo, The is the End has no trouble keeping you on your toes. Plus, can we talk about James Franco’s hilarious fake house?

Each film earns either zero, a half or a full arrow in five categories. The categories are Acting, Writing/Directing, Emotion, Innovation and Overall Impression. The arrows are added up to equal the full score.