What Happened To Monday: Netflix's Gripping Thriller Explained
Hey guys! Ever stumbled upon a movie that just grabs you from the first scene and doesn't let go until the credits roll? That's totally "What Happened to Monday" on Netflix! This sci-fi thriller throws you into a world where overpopulation has led to a drastic, dystopian solution: the Child Allocation Bureau, or CAB, strictly enforces a one-child policy. Sounds intense, right? It is! But what really makes this movie a must-watch is its brilliant premise, heart-pounding action, and a stellar performance by Noomi Rapace, who plays not one, but seven identical sisters. Seriously, seven! Let's dive into the world of "What Happened to Monday" and unpack what makes this Netflix gem so captivating.
The Dystopian World of One Child Policy
In "What Happened to Monday," understanding the one-child policy is key to grasping the stakes. Imagine a future where resources are so scarce that governments impose severe restrictions on family size. That's the reality our septuplets face. Conceived in secret, these seven sisters are raised in hiding by their grandfather, Terrence Settman (Willem Dafoe). He names them after the days of the week – Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and so on – and devises a strict schedule. Each sister is allowed to venture into the outside world only on her designated day, posing as a single person named Karen Settman. This elaborate ruse is their only chance at survival in a world that would otherwise eliminate them.
The CAB, led by the ruthless Nicolette Cayman (Glenn Close), is the enforcer of this draconian policy. Cayman's public image is that of a savior, advocating for the Repression Law to ensure a sustainable future. However, her methods are brutal. Any additional children discovered are supposedly put into cryosleep until the Earth can sustain them, but the reality is far more sinister. This creates an environment of constant fear and paranoia, where families live in the shadows, terrified of being discovered. The film does an excellent job of portraying the psychological toll of living under such oppressive conditions, highlighting the desperation and lengths people will go to protect their loved ones. The tension is palpable, and you can't help but root for the Settman sisters as they navigate this dangerous world. The concept of a one-child policy, while extreme, forces us to confront difficult questions about population control, resource management, and the ethical implications of government intervention in personal choices. It's a thought-provoking backdrop that elevates the film beyond a simple action thriller.
Unpacking the Mystery: What Happened to Monday?
The central mystery of "What Happened to Monday" kicks off, well, on a Monday. Monday, the sister who leads the shared identity and works at a powerful corporation, goes missing. This sets off a chain of events that unravels the carefully constructed world the sisters have built. As each day passes without Monday's return, the remaining sisters – Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday – become increasingly desperate. They must risk everything to find out what happened to her while simultaneously trying to maintain their secret. The tension escalates as they delve deeper into the mystery, uncovering layers of conspiracy and betrayal. Each sister brings her unique skills and personality to the investigation. Tuesday is the strategist, Wednesday is the fighter, and so on. Their individual strengths and weaknesses are put to the test as they face increasingly dangerous obstacles. The narrative cleverly uses flashbacks to reveal the sisters' upbringing and the sacrifices they've made to maintain their shared identity. We see the challenges they faced learning to mimic each other's mannerisms, cover up injuries, and coordinate their stories. These glimpses into their past not only add depth to their characters but also highlight the strong bond that holds them together. As the sisters uncover the truth behind Monday's disappearance, they realize that the conspiracy reaches the highest levels of power. The stakes are raised even further as they discover the horrifying reality of what happens to the extra children who are supposedly put into cryosleep. The mystery is complex and full of twists and turns, keeping you guessing until the very end. It's a testament to the film's clever writing and direction that it manages to maintain such a high level of suspense throughout.
Noomi Rapace's Stunning Performance
Let's be real, the heart and soul of "What Happened to Monday" is Noomi Rapace. Playing seven distinct characters is no easy feat, but she absolutely nails it. Each sister has her own personality, quirks, and fighting style, and Rapace brings them all to life with incredible detail. You can instantly tell which sister is on screen just by her posture, expression, or the way she speaks. It's a masterclass in acting. Rapace doesn't just rely on costumes and makeup to differentiate the sisters. She delves deep into their individual psychologies, exploring their hopes, fears, and motivations. Monday is the responsible leader, burdened by the weight of keeping her sisters safe. Tuesday is the intelligent strategist, always thinking several steps ahead. Wednesday is the fierce warrior, ready to defend her family at any cost. And so on. Each sister is a fully realized character, thanks to Rapace's nuanced performance.
The action sequences are particularly impressive, as Rapace convincingly portrays each sister's unique fighting skills. Whether it's Tuesday's calculated precision or Wednesday's brutal force, she adapts her movements and expressions to suit each character. It's a testament to her physical and mental preparation that she pulls off these scenes with such authenticity. Beyond the action, Rapace also shines in the quieter, more emotional moments. She captures the vulnerability and emotional toll of living in constant fear, as well as the deep bond of sisterhood that sustains them. Her performance is not just technically impressive; it's also deeply moving. She makes you care about these characters and invest in their survival. It's no exaggeration to say that Rapace's performance is the glue that holds the entire film together. Without her incredible talent and dedication, "What Happened to Monday" simply wouldn't be as compelling or memorable.
Themes of Identity, Sacrifice, and Rebellion
Beyond the action and suspense, "What Happened to Monday" explores deeper themes of identity, sacrifice, and rebellion. The sisters' shared identity as Karen Settman forces them to suppress their individuality and live a lie. This raises questions about the importance of personal identity and the psychological cost of conformity. Each sister has had to sacrifice her own dreams and desires for the sake of the group. They've missed out on love, careers, and personal experiences, all to maintain their secret and survive. This highlights the theme of sacrifice and the lengths people will go to protect their loved ones.
The film also explores the theme of rebellion against oppressive systems. As the sisters uncover the truth about the CAB's methods, they realize that they can no longer remain silent. They must fight back against the injustice and expose the lies that are being used to control the population. This theme resonates with current social and political issues, encouraging viewers to question authority and stand up for what they believe in. The sisters' rebellion is not just about their own survival; it's about creating a better future for everyone. They represent hope in a dystopian world, showing that even in the darkest of times, resistance is possible. The film's exploration of these themes adds depth and complexity to the narrative, making it more than just a simple action thriller. It encourages viewers to think critically about the world around them and consider the consequences of unchecked power. It's a film that stays with you long after the credits roll, prompting discussions about important social and ethical issues.
Why You Should Watch "What Happened to Monday"
So, why should you add "What Happened to Monday" to your Netflix watchlist? First off, the premise is incredibly intriguing. A one-child policy enforced by a ruthless organization? Sign me up! The mystery surrounding Monday's disappearance will keep you guessing until the very end, and the action sequences are top-notch. But more than that, the film explores thought-provoking themes about identity, sacrifice, and rebellion. It's a movie that entertains and makes you think. And let's not forget Noomi Rapace's tour-de-force performance. Playing seven different characters is a monumental task, but she pulls it off flawlessly. Each sister is unique and memorable, thanks to her incredible talent. The supporting cast, including Willem Dafoe and Glenn Close, also delivers strong performances, adding depth and complexity to the story. The film's visual style is also worth mentioning. The dystopian world is brought to life with stunning visuals and practical effects, creating a believable and immersive environment. The attention to detail is impressive, from the futuristic technology to the gritty urban landscapes. Overall, "What Happened to Monday" is a well-crafted and engaging thriller that offers something for everyone. Whether you're a fan of action, mystery, or thought-provoking dramas, this film is sure to captivate you. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be blown away by this hidden gem on Netflix. You won't regret it!