Release: Eve of Destruction

 

Eve of Destruction

Genre: Drama / War

Director: Jeremy Saulnier

Writer: Jimmy Ellis

Producer: Dwight Gallo

Cast: Jeremy Allen White, Woody Harrelson, Jennifer Connelly, Taylor Russell, Michael Cimino, Chase Stokes, Austin Abrams

Budget: $23,000,000

Domestic Box Office: $16,588,249

Foreign Box Office: $12,860,101

Total Profit: -$15,793,884

Reaction: Writer Jimmy Ellis did not have the best second half of Season 30 with three box office bombs (and four for the season), but his season was profitable overall so he shouldn't be too bummed (more on that in the Box Office Breakdown).

"Eve of Destruction is an interesting exploration of the aftermath of war and the traumas and moral dilemmas that come with it. Jeremy Allen White's portrayal of Jimmy Whitman is authentic and intimate, I immersed myself with the character. Jennifer Connelly and especially Woody Harrelson shine in their role as Jane and Bob Whitman. It's thought provoking theme left an impact on me even after the credits rolled." - Clark Chase, Chicago Sun-Times

"Eve of Destruction offers a gritty portrayal of a veteran's PTSD, but occasionally falls into predictable tropes. Jeremy Allen White excels as Jimmy, especially in scenes that call for him to act opposite Woody Harrelson. The dynamic between the two performers is easily the highlight of the film. The script's flashbacks add necessary depth, but can feel disjointed at times in their execution and placement. Despite the film's flaws, it does a good job of evoking empathy and thought on war's personal toll. It's no Death Dream, but it is still solid." - Sandy Glavine, Atlanta Constitution-Journal

"Undoubtedly, Jeremy Allen White shines, drawing parallels to Carmy Berzatto while benefiting from Saulnier's boilerplate-like tense direction. His performance as Jimmy navigates familiar themes of personal turmoil from force trauma and the neglectful feeling like you've been forgotten, enhanced by effective flashback sequences (with a game Woody Harrelson performance). Overall, White's portrayal of echoes a 'Taxi Driver' moment, showcasing his growing talent and true-to-form dedication to the quietly, yet disturbingly chaotic role." - Rebecca Barazotto,  Wired.com

Rated R for violence, language, thematic material and drug use