Movie Review: ‘Z for Zachariah’ welcomes you to the Garden of Eden

Z FOR ZACHARIAH (PG-13)

Filmmaker Craig Zobel’s provocative “Z for Zachariah” takes place at the center of a post-apocalyptic world. Only this isn’t the sort of post-apocalyptic world you’d find at the heart of a “Mad Max” movie. No, this is something entirely different.

Based on the novel by Robert C. O’Brien with an eloquent screenplay by Nissar Modi, this quietly effective three-character piece unfolds in a gorgeous, lush valley that for whatever reason seems impervious to the deadly, worldwide phenomenon that has all but taken out most of civilization as we know it. Living alone in this valley is lovely Ann (Margot Robbie), a sweet natured, God-fearing farmer whose lonely existence is vanquished when stranger Loomis (Chiwetel Ejiofor) comes to town.

After exposing himself to a radiated water supply, Loomis becomes deathly ill, but Ann eventually nurses him back to health. Shortly thereafter, Ann and Loomis become inseparably close, but their unshakable bond is ultimately breached by Caleb (Chris Pine), a handsome drifter who seemingly pops up out of nowhere.

This is the setup for what is essentially a subtle sci-fi-tinged fable with spiritual undertones (think the Garden of Eden). While minimalistic in approach and methodically paced, “Z for Zachariah” emerges a thoroughly compelling look at human nature. Themes of love, jealously, religion, and the competitive nature of man flow throughout.

Robbie is convincing and understated as a woman who simply wants to be loved. Ejiofor and Pine are both outstanding as the men fighting—in the only way they know—for Ann’s affection. The question is, can the complications that come with this trio’s unique situation be put aside so that Eden might prosper?

While some viewers will no doubt find the anti-climactic nature and ambiguity in the closing moments of “Z for Zachariah” frustrating, I found the ending of the picture to be both challenging and satisfying. In a world where a lot of movies are insistent on holding your hand and giving you all the answers, “Z for Zachariah” wisely allows you to decide for yourself, and this is but one of many attributes that make this absorbing character-driven drama well worth recommending.

“Z for Zachariah” is currently in limited release, and while it’s worth seeing in the theater, it should be noted that the film is also available via VOD.