I'm Thinking Of Ending Things Review

Purposely challenging yet frequently rewarding, the bizarre and enthralling thriller I'm Thinking Of Ending Things by acclaimed writer/director Charlie Kaufman produces an odyssey that's expertly crafted and drenched in both metaphorical symbolism and narrative shifts. The film refuses to hold its audience's hand. Instead, Kaufman couples each scene with subtle clues and confounding editing, sending the viewer on a mysterious and engaging journey that will surely lose some. Though I'm Thinking Of Ending Things is undoubtedly original, it contains scattered moments that fail to be thoughtfully woven. Resulting in a final fifteen minutes that, while fortifies many of the film's themes of mortality and regret, ultimately epitomizes many of its most pretentious features. Despite these frustrating moments, the masterful filmmaking, fantastic performances, and whimsical score help I'm Thinking Of Ending Thing stay uncompromisingly bold.

I'm Thinking Of Ending Things tells the story of a young woman who, despite second thoughts about their relationship, takes a road trip with her boyfriend, Jake, to his family farm. Confined at the farm during a snowstorm with Jake and his parents, the woman begins to examine the nature of everything encompassing her.

On the surface, I'm Thinking Of Ending Things may anger viewers and hinder their enjoyment. The film is in no way something that should try and be experienced by those who are not willing or able to be fully attentive. Even then, the movie's almost complete lack of linearity or apparent foreshadowing will bewilder many at first. I'm Thinking Of Ending Things transforms unapologetically on whims, cultivating concepts and scenes that perplex as the moment happens and linger far after they're over.

It may not seem like the most effective way of storytelling, and in some instances throughout, it's not. But once the eerie and polarizing elements of the film begin to reveal themselves, it becomes impressive how optimized much of what Kaufman has composed becomes. There's a massive collection of narrative and visual treats to unpack in I'm Thinking Of Ending Things, rewarding many who wish to watch this numerous times.

Overall, the off-kilter and sometimes ostentatious approaches to filmmaking and storytelling that Kaufman has implemented for his latest film will inevitably turn away those looking for a light piece of entertainment that isn't demanding. But anyone familiar with Kaufman's past works or is willing to give his specific execution of melancholy their full concentration will indeed be reimbursed.

The complex yet expertly crafted storytelling of I'm Thinking Of Ending Things keeps the film memorable and engaging despite moments of pompousness.

Produced By: Netflix
Runtime: 134 minutes
Rating: R