The psychological thriller I’m Thinking of Ending Things, written and directed by Charlie Kaufman, premiered on Netflix in September 2020, offering a surreal and thought-provoking cinematic experience. Based on the novel of the same name by Iain Reid, the film follows a young woman (played by Jessie Buckley) who embarks on a journey to meet the parents of her new boyfriend, Jake, while grappling with ambivalence about their relationship.
A movie that will leave you uneasy and bewildered
Despite receiving mostly positive reviews, with an 82% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, audience reception was colder, with a score of only 50%. Many viewers felt puzzled by the unusual pacing and unconventional structure of the film, a typical characteristic of Kaufman’s style, known for his work on Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.
In the movie, Buckley’s character is presented with multiple names, including Lucy, Louisa, and Lucia, reflecting her own confusion about her identity. As the story progresses, the awkward moments of a family dinner intertwine with the life of an elderly man (Guy Boyd) who struggles with loneliness and existential despair, creating a surprising climax that invites reflection.
Buckley’s performance has been so impactful that she is emerging as a favorite for the Oscar for Best Actress for her role in the upcoming film Hamnet. Her performance in I’m Thinking of Ending Things has been praised for her ability to alternate between a stabilizing presence and the delivery of distressing emotions, which has led critics to highlight her versatility as an actress.
Recently, IndieWire included I’m Thinking of Ending Things in its list of the “100 Best Movies of the 2020s (So Far),” highlighting its bold structure and deep existential themes. It is a film that provokes, invites introspection, and may have gone unnoticed upon its release, but definitely deserves to be revisited today.
