Arcadian, a post-apocalyptic horror film directed by the relatively unknown filmmaker Ben Brewer, boasts an impressive cast including Nicholas Cage, Jaeden Martell, and Maxwell Jenkins, with Cage also serving as a producer. With such star power, can Arcadian offer something fresh to its subgenre?
In a future where Earth has been ravaged by monstrous beings, humanity is reduced to a handful of isolated survivors. They live solitary lives, emerging during the day and hiding at night when the monsters hunt. The story centers on Paul (Cage), a father, and his two teenage sons, Joseph (Martell) and Thomas (Jenkins), who reside in a remote rural area alongside a few distant neighbors. When Thomas goes missing after venturing to another farm, Paul is gravely injured while searching for him. Left to fend for themselves, Joseph and Thomas must navigate the threat of the monsters, who seem to have found a way into their refuge.
Post-apocalyptic films can sometimes become convoluted. Arcadian shares similarities with A Quiet Place in its portrayal of a world where survival hinges on silence, though it doesn’t delve into the source of the electrical energy. Similarly, the origins of the monsters remain unexplained, leaving questions for upcoming sequels. Arcadian leaves gaps in explaining how Paul managed to raise his sons alone for 15 years amidst such dire circumstances. While seemingly implausible, it’s feasible given the availability of food and water, even without modern conveniences. Additionally, details about the outside world and the number of survivors remain undisclosed due to the lack of communication tools.
Technically, Arcadian falls short of the production quality seen in A Quiet Place, particularly in its use of handheld cameras and minimalistic settings. The CGI appears average, with the monsters rarely shown clearly and action sequences lacking excitement. However, the standout performances from the cast, particularly Cage’s leadership and Martell’s promising talent, elevate the film despite its technical shortcomings.
Despite its genre and technical limitations, Arcadian succeeds in delivering a poignant message about family. Beneath its surface of survival and monsters lies a story about parental guidance and the struggles of adolescence. Through the lens of teenage rebellion and parental authority, the film explores the delicate balance between protection and independence. The visual motif of a fraying rope symbolizes the inevitable separation between parents and children, culminating in a touching conclusion that, while cliché, adds depth to the narrative.
