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Exploring the Absurdity of Post-Apocalyptic Life in “En Fin”
One of the recurring thoughts that often crosses my mind while watching films or series centered on time loops or impending doom is the potential fallout when protagonists engage in reckless behavior fueled by chaos. What happens when they suddenly escape these scenarios without confronting the ramifications of their actions? For a long time, I lacked the answers to these questions.
One of the most refreshing and entertaining series to emerge recently is En Fin, a comedic gem consisting of six episodes starring Malena Alterio and José Manuel Poga. This show debuted on Prime Video and stands out for its unique take on the post-apocalyptic genre, particularly due to its humorous approach to a scenario that doesn’t actually unfold.
The Day of Reckoning Arrives
The dreaded and long-anticipated day of apocalypse has finally arrived. Tomás wakes up after a night dominated by indulgence and drinks, blissfully unaware that the wandering planet predicted to collide with Earth has merely passed by, allowing life to continue. It is in this moment of realization that he regrettably reflects on his earlier decision to leave his wife, Julia, and daughter, Noa, upon hearing the ominous news about the world’s end.
Feeling a profound sense of remorse, he resolves to take decisive actions to win back his family. Meanwhile, Julia, observing life’s unwavering march forward, chooses to cast aside her fears and embark on experiences she previously shunned. On the other hand, Noa grapples daily with the adults’ tendencies to ruin the world without the necessity of an asteroid cataclysm.
The Evolution of a Unique Concept
David Sainz and Enrique Lojo conceptualized this series nearly a decade ago and tirelessly developed and pitched it across various formats for years. The post-apocalyptic narrative craze, especially following the COVID-19 pandemic—which felt eerily akin to a rehearsal for the end of the world—proved fortunate in providing them with opportunities to land a deal with a streaming platform.
However, En Fin distinguishes itself from other apocalyptic narratives precisely because the predicted disaster does not occur. Characters are left to contend with their decisions made in the face of imminent destruction, forcing them to consider what constitutes a world worth rebuilding. The show adeptly captures the peculiar sentiment following the pandemic’s harshest moments—where society strives to restore life as it once was.
Finding Humor Amidst the Chaos
This series exemplifies the challenge of reverting to pre-existing norms, showcasing the greater struggle involved than one might assume. As a result, it creates amusing situations that stem from this very tension. The clever use of absurdity, coupled with unexpected cameos, infuses the narrative with a bold irreverence that allows it to shine within the typically fertile landscape of Spanish comedy, despite a recent reduction in genuinely impactful offerings.
Fans can catch En Fin exclusively on Prime Video, where it promises to deliver a delightful blend of laughter and introspection.
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