The 2012 sci-fi film Looper stands out as one of the most captivating time travel movies. With an all-star cast including Bruce Willis, Emily Blunt, and Joseph Gordon-Levitt, the story revolves around assassins sent back in time to eliminate targets. Before directing acclaimed films like Knives Out and Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery, Rian Johnson brought us the compelling world of Looper.
Unlike other time travel narratives that leave audiences confused with vague rules, Looper has received acclaim for its well-developed characters, stellar performances, and sophisticated exploration of time travel. This thrilling ride guarantees an unforgettable experience, leaving an indelible imprint with its memorable ending, characters, and overall story.
What Happens In Looper?
Looper revolves around Joe (Joseph Gordon-Levitt), a member of a criminal syndicate residing in the year 2044. The story intensifies when Joe aids his friend Seth (Paul Dano) in evading detection, as Seth was meant to meet his demise but managed to survive. The central premise of the film centers on the existence of "loopers" in 2074, who are obliged to travel back in time and assassinate their younger selves. Despite Bruce Willis' notable involvement in time travel thrillers like Surrogates and his impressive acting repertoire, his portrayal of Old Joe is truly exceptional. The moments where both versions of Joe coexist on screen provide an immensely enjoyable viewing experience.
Throughout the film Looper, Joe continuously confronts and kills his older self, plunging himself into a world filled with terror and chaos. Actor Gordon-Levitt expressed his deep fondness for Joe, describing him as his favorite character he has ever depicted on screen. This admiration is well-founded as Joe is not only a compassionate individual who prioritizes the well-being of his friend, but also a highly skilled assassin who feels compelled to remain loyal to his boss, Abe (portrayed by Jeff Daniels).
Unlike other movies that feature intricate time travel devices, Looper refrains from incorporating such complexities and instead centers the narrative on Joe's personal odyssey. This approach renders the story more relatable, allowing audiences to wholeheartedly invest in Joe's journey and the challenges he faces. Time and again, Joe is forced to make difficult choices, finding himself trapped in seemingly impossible circumstances. The ever-present tension that arises from these predicaments is flawlessly woven into the fabric of the film, captivating viewers from start to finish.
What Happens At The End Of Looper?
In a 2012 interview with NPR, director Rian Johnson discussed the protagonist, Joseph Gordon-Levitt, in his film. Johnson drew inspiration from a classic movie, specifically mentioning Casablanca. He noted that like Rick in Casablanca, the main character Joe starts the film in a state of isolation and self-interest. Johnson further explained that this self-interest was not a reflection of Joe's character but rather a result of the world he must navigate, much like in Casablanca. To establish this, Johnson built a world around Joe that showcases how this selfishness is a necessity rather than a moral failing.
In the Looper's conclusion, Joe finds himself in a precarious situation. Seeking refuge on a farm, he unexpectedly falls for Sara (Emily Blunt), a captivating character distinguished by her ability to move objects with her mind. However, the urgency lies in the fact that Cid (Pierce Gagnon), a young boy with immense potential, is at risk of transforming into The Rainmaker, a powerful crime lord. Aware of the dire consequences, Joe must swiftly devise a plan to prevent this catastrophic outcome.
In the sci-fi film Looper, the concept of time travel is skillfully portrayed and this becomes evident in the ending. From this point onwards, events unfold rapidly. Cid kills Jesse (Garret Dillahunt) and Kid Blue (Noah Segan), the antagonist, captures Old Joe at the behest of Abe.
Both Old Joe and Joe are driven by their instinct for survival. Old Joe eliminates Abe and his associates while Joe takes down Kid Blue. Joe's objective is to prevent Old Joe from murdering Sara. He understands the necessity of stopping Cid from transforming into the Rainmaker. Looper, like other exemplary sci-fi films that explore time travel, establishes the rules and maintains logical coherence throughout. Whether Joe is contemplating his younger or older self, his goal remains consistent - to avert disastrous consequences. This relatability endears him to the audience, despite inhabiting a complex and imaginative world.
The Looper ending takes on a tragic and heartbreaking turn as Joe decides to end his own life. His ultimate goal is to ensure Sara's survival and erase the existence of Old Joe. Although this turn of events is deeply saddening, it aligns with the ominous atmosphere established from the beginning of the film, indicating a harsh and unforgiving world. Joseph Gordon-Levitt delivers a compelling performance as Joe, driving the entire movie and leaving a lasting impression on viewers.
