Pierre T.
# BIOSPHERE: A Unique Blend of Post-Apocalyptic Story and Buddy Comedy
It’s always refreshing when the end of the world brings a touch of levity. “Biosphere,” directed by Mel Eslyn, manages to combine a post-apocalyptic narrative with a buddy comedy, creating a movie centered around two best friends who happen to be the last remaining people on Earth. This high-concept film takes place entirely inside an apartment-sized biosphere, the home of lifelong pals Billy (Mark Duplass) and Ray (Sterling K. Brown). Their incredible chemistry drives the movie forward, but it is a significant twist halfway through the film that makes this strange, funny, and occasionally uncomfortable movie worth watching.
## A Mysterious Post-Apocalyptic Setting
While we don’t have many details about how the world ended, it is clear that the events in the movie take place a few years after an environmental collapse, plunging the world into perpetual darkness. Despite these unfortunate circumstances, Billy and Ray make the most of their situation. They engage in daily activities such as running laps, reading Shakespeare and complex scientific books, and playing the beloved video game “Super Mario Bros.” Their survival is partially dependent on a self-sustaining garden and fish tank that provide them with sustenance. However, when a mysterious affliction causes the fish population to decline, it sparks a crisis within the biosphere.
## A Resonance with the COVID-19 Pandemic
The early scenes of “Biosphere” may evoke uncomfortable memories of the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, when people tried to stay busy and productive by playing games like “Animal Crossing” and baking bread. However, the strong dynamic between Duplass and Brown makes it work. As the only two characters in the movie, they convincingly portray lifelong friends with all the shorthand and baggage that comes with it. They argue, joke around, and even have disagreements about whose turn it is to check on the fish. Ray, the scientific genius who designed their self-sustaining living space, maintains hope while shielding Billy from the harshest realities. Billy, on the other hand, is more emotional and impulsive, and he also happens to be the American president, suggesting that he played a significant role in the world’s downfall.
## Unraveling with a Twist
Although things are far from good in this post-apocalyptic world, they continue to tick along until the fish crisis brings about a dramatic chain of events. Without giving away any spoilers, it is worth mentioning that the twist allows the film to delve into themes of friendship, masculinity, and sexuality in unique and intriguing ways. “Biosphere” explores these ideas from various angles, transitioning seamlessly between being a gross-out comedy, a heartfelt and poignant story, and even moments of seriousness that feel genuine. Additionally, the film includes scenes where the characters debate the rules for masturbation within the biosphere.
## A Slightly Vague Conclusion
“Biosphere” may not have the most satisfying ending—leaving some questions unanswered—but the journey leading up to it is undeniably compelling. Unfortunately, I cannot elaborate on the reasons due to spoilers. Nevertheless, trust me when I say that spending the end of days with Ray and Billy is intriguing, and the runtime of a feature-length movie is just perfect to fully immerse yourself in their world.
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Source: Biosphere hits theaters and on-demand services on July 7th.
