What Happened To Monday? A 2017 Film Explained

Hey guys, have you ever seen a movie that totally messes with your head in the best way possible? Well, "What Happened to Monday?", the 2017 science fiction thriller, is definitely one of those films. This movie isn't just a fun watch; it's a wild ride that throws you headfirst into a dystopian future. It's filled with twists, action, and a thought-provoking premise that sticks with you long after the credits roll. Let's dive deep and break down what makes this movie so captivating. We'll explore the plot, characters, themes, and why it resonated with so many viewers. This film is more than just a suspenseful story; it's a commentary on overpopulation, government control, and the resilience of the human spirit. Get ready to have your mind blown!

The Core Premise: A World Overwhelmed

At the heart of "What Happened to Monday?" lies a terrifyingly plausible future. Overpopulation has become a massive crisis, pushing the world to the brink. Governments worldwide have implemented a strict one-child policy to curb population growth. But what happens when a family has more than one child? This is where the story's central conflict begins. Terrence Settman, a man with a groundbreaking vision, is raising seven identical granddaughters, each named after a day of the week: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. This incredible task is not without its risks; the girls must stay hidden from the authorities, who would likely separate or eliminate them.

The Settman Sisters: Seven Individual Lives

The Settman sisters, played brilliantly by Noomi Rapace, aren't just clones; they are seven distinct personalities. Each sister has her own unique character traits, talents, and approaches to life. Monday is the de facto leader, resourceful and strategic. Tuesday is the adventurous one, always ready for action. Wednesday is the intelligent and tech-savvy sister. Thursday is the athletic and daring sister. Friday is the kind and gentle sister. Saturday is the party-loving sister, while Sunday is the artistic and emotional sister. They all share the same identity during their single day of freedom and existence outside their shared home, but they take turns going out into the world, pretending to be the same person named Karen Settman. This is not easy, especially when someone doesn't come home on Monday.

The Ingenious Plan: A Shared Identity

To navigate the outside world, the sisters live under a shared identity: Karen Settman. They take turns going out into the world, each with a designated day of the week to live their lives. This intricate system is managed by their grandfather, Terrence, who has taught them everything they know to survive. Each sister has a specific role, and they must share all their experiences and knowledge with the others. This level of cooperation is critical to their survival, but it is also a huge burden and a source of conflict. The movie's suspense comes from the constant fear of being discovered.

The Unfolding Mystery: Monday's Disappearance

Everything changes when Monday doesn't return home one day. This event plunges the remaining sisters into chaos and fear. They have to find out what happened to her while trying to maintain their carefully constructed facade. As they investigate, they discover that Monday may have stumbled upon something dangerous, and the government, led by the ruthless Nicolette Cayman, is involved.

The Search for Answers: Unraveling the Truth

The remaining sisters must use all their skills and cunning to discover Monday's fate. They navigate the dangerous world outside their home, facing violent agents and government surveillance. The sisters must piece together the clues left behind, uncovering the truth about the missing Monday and the dark secrets behind the government's population control measures. This investigation takes them through thrilling chases and deadly confrontations.

Unveiling the Conspiracy: The Cayman Institute

As the sisters delve deeper, they uncover a sinister conspiracy led by Nicolette Cayman, the head of the Child Allocation Bureau. Cayman's solution to overpopulation is far more brutal than anyone imagined. She doesn't just separate multiple children; she eliminates them. The film reveals the horrifying truth about the Child Allocation Bureau, which secretly uses a process called "cryosleep" to supposedly preserve the extra children until resources are available. In reality, it's a systematic extermination.

Key Themes and Messages

"What Happened to Monday?" is far more than just an action-packed thriller. It explores several important themes that make it a compelling and thought-provoking film.

Overpopulation and Dystopian Societies

One of the main themes in the movie is the impact of overpopulation on society. The film portrays a world where resources are scarce, and governments resort to extreme measures to control the population. The setting offers a chilling vision of how societal structures might change. The film prompts viewers to contemplate the ethical considerations related to population control and the potential consequences of such policies.

The Power of Family and Identity

Despite the dystopian setting, the film's core is the bond of family. The Settman sisters demonstrate the power of sibling love and loyalty. Their relationships are tested under extreme circumstances, forcing them to depend on each other for survival. The sisters' struggle to maintain their individual identities while sharing a single life is a central theme, exploring the complexities of identity and individuality.

Government Control and Ethical Dilemmas

The film critiques the actions of governments that sacrifice individual rights for the perceived benefit of society. The actions of Nicolette Cayman and the Child Allocation Bureau exemplify the potential dangers of unchecked power and the ethical dilemmas that arise when governments implement oppressive policies. The movie is a cautionary tale about the importance of protecting human rights and individual liberties, even when faced with overwhelming challenges.

The Cast and Performances

The success of "What Happened to Monday?" largely hinges on the performances of the cast. Noomi Rapace's portrayal of the seven Settman sisters is absolutely incredible. Her ability to embody seven distinct personalities within a single film is a testament to her acting prowess. The supporting cast, including Glenn Close as Nicolette Cayman and Willem Dafoe as Terrence Settman, provides strong performances that elevate the film.

Noomi Rapace: A Tour-de-Force

Noomi Rapace's performance is the film's centerpiece. She seamlessly transforms herself into seven unique characters, each with distinct mannerisms and characteristics. From the sharp and decisive Monday to the artistic and sensitive Sunday, she flawlessly portrays each sister. This is a remarkable feat for any actor, and Rapace's skill is the glue that holds the film together.

Glenn Close and Willem Dafoe: Supporting Roles

Glenn Close delivers a chilling portrayal of Nicolette Cayman, the film's antagonist. Her performance captures the character's cold, calculating nature and unwavering belief in her mission. Willem Dafoe, as Terrence Settman, brings warmth and vulnerability to his role, providing a grounding influence for the sisters. Their presence adds layers to the story and underscores the film's emotional depth.

The Ending Explained: A Twist of Fate

The ending of "What Happened to Monday?" is as impactful as it is complex. After a series of betrayals and sacrifices, the surviving sisters discover the truth about Monday's disappearance. They confront Cayman, leading to a dramatic showdown. In the end, the surviving sisters expose the Child Allocation Bureau's horrific practices. They manage to bring down Cayman and ensure that the government's cruel policies are stopped. The survivors can finally live free from the threat of being discovered.

The Sacrifice and Redemption

Throughout the film, the sisters face impossible choices, often leading to sacrifice. In the climax, the remaining sisters must decide whether to protect themselves or fight for a better future. The resolution highlights the importance of empathy and the triumph of the human spirit. The survivors' actions lead to the dismantling of the oppressive system. The ending is bittersweet, with the sisters forever changed by their experiences, but ultimately hopeful.

The Aftermath: A Glimmer of Hope

The film concludes with a glimpse of a more hopeful future. The exposure of the Child Allocation Bureau allows for a change in policies. The survivors may finally be able to live their lives without fear. The film's conclusion leaves viewers with a sense of optimism, suggesting that humanity can overcome even the most daunting challenges. It encourages viewers to think about the importance of individual rights and the power of resistance.

Why "What Happened to Monday?" Remains Relevant

"What Happened to Monday?" continues to resonate with audiences today due to its compelling storytelling and thought-provoking themes. The film's depiction of overpopulation and government control feels eerily relevant in an era of global challenges. Its exploration of themes like family, identity, and the importance of individual rights makes it timeless.

Timeless Themes and Relevance

The film tackles universal themes, such as the love of family and the fight for freedom. It explores the ethical issues related to population control and the potential consequences of such policies, issues that are important to us today. "What Happened to Monday?" is a film that encourages us to consider the world around us and the decisions we face. It serves as a reminder of the power of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Engaging and Entertaining

Beyond its thematic depth, the film is an exciting and entertaining thriller. The action sequences, suspenseful plot twists, and powerful performances keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The film's intricate plot is masterfully executed, with a constant flow of surprises that keep the audience captivated. The film is sure to get you hooked and keep you thinking.

Conclusion: A Must-See Film

So, guys, "What Happened to Monday?" is not just a movie; it's an experience. It's a film that stays with you long after the credits roll. If you enjoy thought-provoking science fiction, action-packed thrillers, and powerful performances, this movie is a must-see. It's a testament to the power of family, the resilience of the human spirit, and the importance of fighting for what's right.

I hope you enjoyed this deep dive into "What Happened to Monday?"! Let me know in the comments what you think. Until next time, happy watching!