What Happened To Monday: A Netflix Show Breakdown

Hey guys! Ever stumbled upon a movie that just grips you from the get-go? Well, for me, that was What Happened to Monday. This Netflix show throws you headfirst into a dystopian world with a seriously intriguing premise. So, let’s dive deep and break down what makes this sci-fi thriller a must-watch.

The Core Concept: A World Overpopulated

Overpopulation is the chilling reality in What Happened to Monday. Imagine a future where resources are stretched thin, and the planet groans under the weight of too many people. The solution? A draconian one-child policy enforced by the Child Allocation Bureau, led by the formidable Nicolette Cayman (played brilliantly by Glenn Close). This bureau aims to control population growth by putting all but the firstborn child into cryogenic sleep, promising them a chance at life when the world can sustain them. Sounds bleak, right? That's because it is.

The film doesn't shy away from showing us the stark consequences of such a policy. Families are torn apart, forced to make impossible choices. The desperation and fear are palpable, creating a tense atmosphere that permeates the entire movie. You really feel the weight of this world, where survival means adhering to strict, often cruel, rules. The one-child policy isn't just a plot device; it's a commentary on our own potential future, sparking conversations about sustainability, ethics, and the value of human life. How far would we go to ensure the survival of our species? This is the question the film subtly, yet powerfully, poses.

Moreover, the visual representation of this overpopulated world adds another layer to the narrative. The crowded cities, the rationing of resources, and the ever-present surveillance all serve to amplify the sense of claustrophobia and oppression. It's a world where individuality is suppressed, and conformity is the key to survival. This setting isn't just a backdrop; it's an integral part of the story, shaping the characters' actions and driving the plot forward. The attention to detail in creating this dystopian environment is truly commendable, making it all the more believable and unsettling.

Meet the Septuplets: Seven Identities, One Life

The heart of the story revolves around seven identical sisters, born to a mother who dies during childbirth. Their grandfather, Terrence Settman (Willem Dafoe), decides to raise them in secret, defying the one-child policy. He names them after the days of the week – Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Each sister is allowed to go out into the world only on her designated day, assuming the identity of Karen Settman. This is where things get seriously interesting.

Noomi Rapace delivers an absolutely stunning performance, portraying all seven sisters with distinct personalities and quirks. It's not just about changing hairstyles or outfits; she embodies each sister's fears, dreams, and vulnerabilities. Monday is the responsible leader, Tuesday is the rebellious hacker, Wednesday is the tough fighter, and so on. Each sister brings something unique to the table, making them feel like fully realized individuals, despite sharing the same face. This incredible feat of acting is one of the main reasons why the film is so captivating.

The dynamics between the sisters are also fascinating to watch. They have their own secrets, their own desires, and their own conflicts. Living under such extreme conditions takes a toll on their relationships, leading to moments of both fierce loyalty and bitter resentment. The film explores the complexities of sisterhood, highlighting the bonds that tie them together while also acknowledging the tensions that can arise when survival is at stake. These nuanced relationships add depth and emotional resonance to the story, making the audience truly invested in their fate. You find yourself rooting for them, even when they make questionable decisions, because you understand the pressures they're under.

The Mystery Unravels: What Happened to Monday?

The plot thickens when Monday mysteriously disappears. The other sisters must now venture out of their carefully constructed routine to find her, risking exposure and facing the ruthless agents of the Child Allocation Bureau. This sets off a chain of events filled with action, suspense, and shocking revelations.

As the sisters investigate Monday's disappearance, they uncover a conspiracy that goes far deeper than they ever imagined. They begin to question everything they thought they knew about the Child Allocation Bureau and its true motives. The stakes are raised as they realize that their lives, and the lives of countless others, are in danger. The mystery surrounding Monday's fate becomes the driving force of the narrative, keeping you on the edge of your seat as you try to piece together the puzzle alongside the sisters.

The action sequences are brilliantly choreographed, showcasing the sisters' resourcefulness and fighting skills. Each sister brings her own unique talents to the table, making them a formidable force when they work together. The film doesn't shy away from violence, but it's always purposeful, serving to highlight the brutality of the world they live in and the desperation of their situation. These action-packed moments are interspersed with quieter, more introspective scenes, allowing the audience to catch their breath and connect with the characters on a deeper level. This balance between action and emotion is one of the film's greatest strengths.

Themes and Social Commentary

What Happened to Monday isn't just a thrilling action movie; it's also a thought-provoking commentary on several important social issues. Overpopulation, government control, and the value of individual identity are all explored in depth.

The film raises questions about the ethics of population control and the potential dangers of a government wielding too much power. It challenges us to consider the consequences of sacrificing individual freedoms for the sake of the collective good. Is it ever justifiable to decide who gets to live and who doesn't? This is the central ethical dilemma that the film grapples with, and it's one that resonates strongly in our current world, where debates about resource allocation and government intervention are constantly ongoing.

Furthermore, the film explores the importance of individuality and the struggle to maintain one's identity in a world that demands conformity. The sisters' fight to protect their individual identities is a powerful metaphor for the human desire to be seen and valued for who we are, not just as a cog in a machine. This theme is particularly relevant in today's society, where social media and other forces often pressure us to conform to certain standards and expectations. The film reminds us that our individuality is what makes us unique and that it's worth fighting for.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth Watching?

So, is What Happened to Monday worth your time? Absolutely! With its gripping plot, stellar performances, and thought-provoking themes, this Netflix show is a must-watch for fans of sci-fi thrillers. It's a movie that will stay with you long after the credits roll, prompting you to ponder the future of our world and the choices we make.

The film's strengths lie in its ability to entertain and provoke thought simultaneously. It's not just a mindless action flick; it's a film with something to say, and it says it with style and substance. The world-building is exceptional, the characters are compelling, and the plot is full of twists and turns that will keep you guessing until the very end. If you're looking for a movie that will challenge your assumptions and leave you pondering the big questions, then What Happened to Monday is definitely for you.

So grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be transported to a dystopian world where survival is a daily struggle and the bonds of sisterhood are tested to their limits. You won't be disappointed!