Watch Left Behind

Left Behind is a dramatic thriller film that follows a group of survivors during the biblical end times. Directed by Vic Armstrong in 2014, the film is an adaptation of the best-selling novel of the same name by Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins. It stars Abigail Newell as Chloe Steele, a young reporter who discovers the truth about the sudden disappearance of millions of people around the world, including her pilot father, Rayford Steele (Nicolas Cage). Kyle Clark also stars as Buck Williams, a journalist who becomes Chloe's ally as they navigate the chaos that ensues in the aftermath of the event popularly known as the Rapture.

With a running time of approximately 110 minutes, Left Behind is an engrossing and thought-provoking film that explores themes such as faith, redemption, and survival. The movie begins with Chloe, who is having a strained relationship with Rayford due to his frequent absences, boarding a plane to London for work. While in the air, she experiences a terrifying revelation when she discovers that her father's co-pilot and several other passengers have vanished without a trace and chaos has ensued on the ground.

As Chloe and Buck try to make sense of what is happening, they are confronted with the harsh reality that the world as they know it has changed forever. The news is filled with reports of mass disappearances, earthquakes, and other natural disasters that are taking place around the world. Fear and confusion reign supreme as people struggle to come to terms with what is happening and how to cope with the sudden loss of loved ones and the breakdown of society.

As the chaos intensifies, Chloe and Buck encounter a host of characters who are also grappling with the aftermath of the Rapture. Some have turned to faith, while others have turned to violence and desperation. Together, they face a series of challenges that test their resolve and put their lives in danger.

One of the strengths of Left Behind is its focus on character development. Despite the apocalyptic backdrop, the film offers a nuanced portrayal of the survivors and their struggles. Chloe, for instance, is a strong-willed protagonist who is deeply affected by her father's absence and struggles to reconcile her disbelief in God with the events she has witnessed. Buck, on the other hand, is a skeptic who is also dealing with personal demons and trying to make sense of the chaos from his own perspective.

Although some viewers might find the religious themes of Left Behind heavy-handed, the film does an admirable job of balancing its spiritual message with its suspenseful plot. The movie is undeniably steeped in Christian theology, with numerous references to the Bible and the concept of the Rapture. However, the film also raises questions about the nature of faith and the role of humanity in shaping its destiny.

Visually, Left Behind is a well-crafted movie that uses its cinematography and special effects to build tension and atmosphere. The scenes of destruction and chaos are convincingly portrayed, while the film's quieter moments are given room to breathe. The score, too, is effective in lending a sense of urgency and emotion to the proceedings.

In terms of criticisms, some viewers might find the film's pacing uneven, with moments of intense action interspersed with scenes that feel like they drag on too long. Additionally, while the casting is generally strong, some actors struggle to hold their own against the likes of Cage and Newell.

Overall, Left Behind is a flawed but impressive film that offers a gripping and emotionally resonant take on the biblical end times. It's a movie that will appeal to those looking for a thought-provoking thriller that explores big themes and issues, as well as those looking for a faith-based film that doesn't shy away from the darker aspects of human nature. It might not be for everyone, but for those willing to go along with its premise, it's a compelling journey that will leave viewers thinking about its themes long after the credits have rolled.