Love and Monsters, initially known as Monster Problems, took a long and winding road to reach audiences, mirroring the arduous journey undertaken by its protagonist, Joel Dawson. Paramount Pictures first announced the film in June 2012, with an initial release date set for March 6th, 2020. However, like many plans in 2020, the release schedule shifted dramatically. It was first pushed to April 17th, 2020, then again to February 12, 2021, before finally bypassing theatrical release altogether and debuting on video-on-demand on October 16th, 2020. This turbulent release history sets the stage for a movie about overcoming obstacles, much like Joel’s own monster-filled adventure.
Joel’s 80-Mile Trek: More Than Just Distance
The core premise of Love and Monsters revolves around Joel Dawson, portrayed by Dylan O’Brien, a survivor living in an underground bunker seven years after a monster apocalypse. Learning that his girlfriend, Aimee (Jessica Henwick), is alive and located in a colony 80 miles away, Joel embarks on a perilous surface journey to reunite with her. This 80-mile distance is not just a geographical marker; it represents a monumental personal challenge and the central driving force of the film.
While the movie trailer might initially suggest a generic teen narrative, Love and Monsters offers a surprisingly engaging underdog story. Joel is established as the least capable member of his bunker colony, struggling to contribute beyond basic cooking. The giant ant attack that breaches their shelter acts as a catalyst, pushing Joel to confront his fears and perceived inadequacies. His decision to travel those 80 miles is less about Aimee’s immediate danger and more about his own need for self-discovery and proving his worth. This personal motivation, while perhaps not as overtly heroic as rescuing a damsel in distress, resonates with the film’s coming-of-age themes.
Encounters Along the Monster-Laden Road
Joel’s 80-mile journey is far from a straight path. He quickly learns the harsh realities of the monster-infested world outside the bunker. Early encounters with Sand Gobblins highlight his vulnerability and inexperience, emphasizing the danger he faces at every turn. It is during these initial struggles that he meets Clyde (Michael Rooker) and Minnow (Ariana Greenblatt), two seasoned survivors who become his mentors.
Clyde and Minnow impart crucial survival lessons, acting as guides who equip Joel with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate this hostile environment. These lessons, ranging from practical tips like “always keep your socks dry” to strategic advice such as “don’t take shortcuts,” are integral to Joel’s growth and survival. They not only aid him in traversing the 80 miles but also contribute to his transformation from a fearful bunker resident to a capable survivor.
The film cleverly utilizes Joel’s monster journal as a narrative device, showcasing the diverse and often creatively designed creatures that inhabit this post-apocalyptic world. While some monster designs, like the giant ant, might appear conventional, others, such as the Boulder Snail and the colossal crab, demonstrate imaginative creature concepts. Joel’s journal entries, though potentially exaggerating certain monster features, reveal his evolving understanding of this new ecosystem and his dedication to documenting it. This quirky detail adds depth to his character and provides visual breaks in his journey.
Lessons Learned and Miles Conquered
Throughout his 80-mile trek, Joel internalizes the survival rules taught by Clyde and Minnow. These rules become more than just guidelines; they represent his adaptation to the dangers and his increasing self-reliance. The journey itself is a crucible, forging Joel’s inner hero as he confronts his fears and overcomes numerous obstacles. While the film may share some thematic similarities with Zombieland in its lighthearted approach to a monster apocalypse, Love and Monsters distinguishes itself through Joel’s solitary journey and personal growth. Unlike the group dynamic of Zombieland, Joel’s story is about individual resilience and the courage to face the unknown, even for a distance of 80 miles for love.
Joel documenting monsters in his journal
Joel's journal monster drawings
More of Joel's monster journal illustrations
Joel's sketches of various monsters
Monster drawings from Joel's perspective
Joel's monster journal art
Illustrations of monsters in Joel's journal
Monster sketches from Joel's journal
Joel's monster drawings and notes
Monster illustrations in Joel's journal
Joel's monster journal artwork
Drawings of monsters from Joel's journal
Monster journal sketches by Joel
Joel's illustrated monster journal pages
Monster drawings from Joel's perspective in his journal
Joel's monster journal with detailed drawings
Monster illustrations in Joel's journal – concept art
Joel's monster journal – creature designs
Monster journal with Joel's artistic interpretations
Joel's monster journal – imaginative creature drawings
Monster journal illustrations by Joel Dawson
Joel's monster journal – creative monster designs
Joel's monster journal showcasing unique creature concepts
Final Thoughts: Was Joel’s Journey Worth It?
Love and Monsters ultimately delivers a heartwarming and entertaining adventure. While it may not redefine the monster movie genre, it succeeds in crafting a relatable coming-of-age story set against an extraordinary backdrop. Joel’s 80-mile journey is not just about physical distance; it’s a transformative experience that pushes him beyond his comfort zone and forces him to confront his limitations and discover his hidden potential.
For viewers seeking a lighthearted yet engaging post-apocalyptic film with a focus on character development and creative monster designs, Love and Monsters is certainly worth watching. Have you embarked on this monster-filled journey with Joel? Share your thoughts on the movie in the comments below! Follow us on our social media channels for more movie reviews and discussions.
