‘Only’ (2019): Well Acted Yet Flawed Vision Of The Apocalypse – Movie Review

I have to admit, it’s pretty eerie to be reviewing a film about a killer virus while Covid-19 sparks fear in people like it’s literally the end of the world, but here I am, reviewing an apocalyptic film about a killer virus. Only is directed by Takashi Doscher (Hear Us 2018), and stars Freida Pinto (Slumdog Millionaire 2008), Leslie Odom, Jr. (Murder on the Orient Express 2017) and The Walking Dead’s Chandler Riggs and Jason Warner Smith.

Synopsis:

After a comet releases a mysterious virus that begins to kill all the women in the world, a young couple hides out in their over-sterilized apartment trying to fight for their lives.

After the comet hits, quick thinking Will (Odom, Jr.) manages to seal off their apartment with plastic, set up sterilizer lights, and take other precautions necessary to keep his girlfriend, Eva (Pinto), alive. Needless to say, their sanity begins to suffer as they are required to remain confined together for an undetermined period of time. Only doesn’t focus as much on the apocalypse itself as much as it does on the characters of Will and Eva.

On the positive side, the performances are very warm and natural from both of the leads. They feel like they are in an actual relationship. This includes the warm, happy side as well as the darker times. The strain of survival shows on their weary faces, especially Odom, Jr.’s, who really does a fine job here. It’s his character’s job to shoulder the majority of the responsibility in the film, and Odom, Jr.’s more than up to the task.

Now for the bad. There are certain actions that the characters take that defied all logic and drove me absolutely nuts. For instance, if you are traveling while attempting to hide as a man – CUT YOUR HAIR. That way no one can pull your cap off and let your waist length hair instantly give you away. If your girlfriend is really bad at following orders like Stay Close, how about leaving her in the car where you won’t have to worry about her? Or, maybe if you are trying to maintain a low profile and keep your car hidden, don’t fire a gun… honestly, I could go on.

Watch Only here!

Overall, Only is an interesting character study with superb acting. There is minimal gore, so don’t watch it expecting that. This is a film I’d recommend if you are a fan of the actors or good dramas.