The key word, that the whole story one way or another revolves around is destruction.
Firstly there's the utter and total destruction that a full scale nuclear exchange sets loose.
Secondly there's the destruction of facades and roles, both assumed and those that the society sets. Most poignant is the case of Mr. Petrukhin, who is seeking to live up to a notion of what being a perfect English gentleman encompasses. This however is shattered by the vile, antisemitic reception he receives from many of the very crowd he wishes to be part of.
..And finally what is also touched upon is the destruction of other species (for nutrition) by us people. In the end, this is revealed to have been a major reason for Anthony's breakdown and disappearance. I found this theme a good counterpoint. Too often we are preoccupied and oblivious to what we do to other, supposedly lesser beings. Bravely written, Mr. Poliakoff.
All above is fitted with surprising ease to very good script and most of all, it is nicely delivered by a strong cast. Indeed. This is probably among the finest roles Toby Stephens has delivered. Also, one who really merits a special mention, is the young Toby Woolf. Now and then, it truly amazes, how well some child actors do. This was one of those occasions.
Firstly there's the utter and total destruction that a full scale nuclear exchange sets loose.
Secondly there's the destruction of facades and roles, both assumed and those that the society sets. Most poignant is the case of Mr. Petrukhin, who is seeking to live up to a notion of what being a perfect English gentleman encompasses. This however is shattered by the vile, antisemitic reception he receives from many of the very crowd he wishes to be part of.
..And finally what is also touched upon is the destruction of other species (for nutrition) by us people. In the end, this is revealed to have been a major reason for Anthony's breakdown and disappearance. I found this theme a good counterpoint. Too often we are preoccupied and oblivious to what we do to other, supposedly lesser beings. Bravely written, Mr. Poliakoff.
All above is fitted with surprising ease to very good script and most of all, it is nicely delivered by a strong cast. Indeed. This is probably among the finest roles Toby Stephens has delivered. Also, one who really merits a special mention, is the young Toby Woolf. Now and then, it truly amazes, how well some child actors do. This was one of those occasions.