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How It Ends (2021)

2021 • 1h 23m • Drama, Comedy • R
On September 23, 2026
#12035▲ 642
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All reviews

Manuel São Bento on How It Ends

6/10 · Jan 30, 2021

After experiencing emotionally draining films like CODA, a lackluster Human Factors, and the polarizing Cryptozoo, I was really looking forward to ending my day with something simple, funny, and easygoing—a movie built around an odd but interesting idea. And that’s exactly what I got. It's just a pleasant collection of entertaining interactions and some thoughtful moments about the character, both versions of her. Even though it feels repetitive and follows a predictable pattern, I remained engaged throughout because the film is short and primarily thanks to the two lead actors who are fantastic. Zoe Lister-Jones and Cailee Spaeny have wonderful chemistry together, creating a feeling of pure enjoyment that puts a smile on your face. Their connection really enhances the whole movie; it’s not just about laughs though. Lister-Jones and Daryl Wein explore Liza's character through sincere conversations and intense discussions about things everyone has done they later regret but never thinks to correct. From forgiving mistakes made by family and friends, to accepting our own errors and imperfections, dealing with unresolved personal issues on what might be your final day shouldn’t be necessary—it should have happened long before this last chance. Filmed during the pandemic, watching a movie that's mostly outdoors feels surprisingly refreshing. Some viewers may not like the many celebrity appearances that pop up in short scenes, but I think they all serve a purpose, helping to develop the main character further with each appearance. As I mentioned earlier, the film’s cyclical nature does hold back certain parts, particularly the constant walking around, which can become a little dull. The music by Ryan Miller is definitely a highlight, though. How It Ends is an enjoyable and uncomplicated movie that ultimately succeeds in being a lighthearted look at the protagonist's life. Using a fairly standard plot device, Daryl Wein and Zoe Lister-Jones create a straightforward but repetitive story with lots of well-known faces appearing one after another as they walk down empty streets until someone new shows up to offer another funny moment. Despite this, it has more depth than initially meets the eye. Lister-Jones and Cailee Spaeny really carry the film, delivering impressive performances that kept me completely invested. Even though it seems like a simple, innocent movie, the main character is relatable, which makes it much more interesting. Everyone does things they’ll later regret, but making amends shouldn't be left to a desperate situation or until the very end… and that’s a message I can support. Rating: B-

Source on TMDB