NOAH (2014)

Summary:

In a world ravaged by human sin and environmental destruction, Noah, a descendant of Seth, is plagued by visions of an apocalyptic flood sent by the Creator to cleanse the Earth. Guided by divine prophecy and the wisdom of his grandfather Methuselah, Noah embarks on a monumental task: to build an ark large enough to save his family and a pair of every innocent animal, preparing for the impending deluge that will wipe out all other life.

As Noah races against time, he faces not only the skepticism and hostility of the wicked human population, led by the ruthless Tubal-Cain, but also profound internal conflicts. His unwavering devotion to the Creator's will strains his relationships with his wife Naameh and his sons, especially when the divine plan seems to demand an ultimate sacrifice that challenges his very humanity and the future of mankind itself.

Keywords: Noah, 2014, Russell Crowe, Jennifer Connelly, Emma Watson, Darren Aronofsky, Biblical Epic, Drama, Fantasy, Adventure.

Plot:

The film opens with a young Noah witnessing the murder of his father Lamech by Tubal-Cain. Years later, Noah lives with his wife Naameh and sons Shem, Ham, and Japheth. Plagued by visions of a global flood, Noah seeks guidance from his grandfather Methuselah. Methuselah explains that the Creator intends to destroy mankind for its wickedness and guides Noah to build an ark, with the help of the Watchers – fallen angels encased in rock – who assist in gathering materials and defending the construction site from Tubal-Cain's encroaching army.

As the ark nears completion and animals begin to arrive, Noah takes in Ila, an orphaned girl severely wounded in a trap, who is later healed by Methuselah and becomes Shem's wife. The flood begins, and Tubal-Cain, along with his followers, attempts to storm the ark, resulting in a brutal battle where the Watchers sacrifice themselves to protect the ark's inhabitants. Inside, Noah becomes increasingly zealous, interpreting the Creator's will to mean that humanity should end with his family, leading to severe tension, particularly with Ham, who feels alienated and resentful. Ila reveals she is pregnant, further challenging Noah's interpretation of the divine command.

After the flood subsides, Ila gives birth to twin daughters. Noah, believing he must kill them to fulfill the Creator's supposed plan to end humanity, struggles immensely. Confronted by his family and his own conscience, he ultimately cannot bring himself to commit the act. The family leaves the ark, and Noah, tormented by his actions and intentions, isolates himself. Eventually, he reconciles with his family, particularly Ila, who reminds him of his role as a father, not just an instrument of divine will. The film concludes with the family beginning a new life, witnessing a rainbow, a covenant of hope from the Creator.

Cast (Lead Roles):

• Russell Crowe as Noah
• Jennifer Connelly as Naameh
• Emma Watson as Ila
• Logan Lerman as Ham
• Douglas Booth as Shem
• Ray Winstone as Tubal-Cain
• Anthony Hopkins as Methuselah

Crew:

• Director: Darren Aronofsky
• Screenplay: Darren Aronofsky, Ari Handel
• Producers: Scott Franklin, Darren Aronofsky, Arnon Milchan, Mary Parent
• Cinematography: Matthew Libatique
• Music: Clint Mansell

Release Info:

• Original Release Date: March 28, 2014 (USA)
• Language: English
• Genre: Biblical Epic, Drama, Fantasy, Adventure
• Running Time: 138 minutes
• Accolades: Nominated for Saturn Award for Best Fantasy Film