Leave the World Behind

Generating plenty of intriguing dynamics from its urgent what-if scenario, Leave the World Behind changes the rules in its theoretical apocalyptic blame game.

Part technological cautionary tale, part sociopolitical satire, this slow-burning psychological thriller tackles trust, paranoia, race, and privilege with contemporary flair and high-minded ambition, even if it’s muddled by gimmicks and contrivances.

The title comes from the marketing pitch for a lavish Long Island rental house where Amanda (Julia Roberts) and Clay (Ethan Hawke) take their two teenage children for a vacation. He’s an unassuming college professor and she’s an uptight sales executive, and we sense their relationship could use some fresh air.

Unusual things start happening at random. An oil tanker crashes on the beach. A herd of deer infiltrates the backyard. Television and wi-fi service goes out. Then comes a late-night visit from tuxedo-clad George (Mahershala Ali) and his daughter, Ruth (Myha’la Herrold), who claim to own the house and need to stay overnight after a blackout in the city.

Details are gradually revealed about the interlopers and their intentions, as well as the predicament that has everyone on edge. Amanda’s suspicions are particularly heightened, yet the two families are forced into a reluctant alliance.

Meanwhile, atmospheric irregularities and piercing noises add to the discomfort. Desperate for news but forced to cling to conspiracy theories, they assume there’s been some sort of widespread cyberattack. And staying put might be safer than seeking help, if only they can survive each other.

The strange occurrences build a natural tension without the persistently ominous piano score or the array of sweeping overhead camera movements and tracking shots, which are technically impressive but also feel distracting and ostentatious.

The screenplay by director Sam Esmail (“Mr. Robot”) — adapted from the 2020 novel by Rumaan Alam — taps into our collective fear of the unknown through disturbing imagery and hints of impending doom.

Leave the World Behind is buoyed by solid performances all around, although the dystopian plot spins its wheels rather than enhancing the suspense through a bloated middle section that’s more tedious than provocative.

The film’s ambiguity is both fascinating and frustrating. As uneasy interactions fuel subtle power struggles within the house, we realize the characters are not as compelling as what’s going on around them. We care about the fate of the planet more than their place within it.

Rated R, 138 minutes.