The Night is Darkest Just Before the Dawn

           

In Apocalypse Left and Right, Dan Archer explores the nature of media, film, and our obsession with the apocalypse. In one panel he writes: “When viewed through a cinematic lens, the threat of apocalypse can galvanize worldwide solidarity/redemption” (1). There are many different aspects to apocalypse that are appealing to the viewer, but this idea of putting aside our differences to band together against a common threat seems particularly romantic. This is especially true considering we live in a world rife with conflict that is constantly being magnified and dissected by the media. A good example of this appeal can be seen in the 2013 apocalyptic film World War Z. Based off of a popular novel, the film tells the story of a global contagion that turns people into hostile zombies that push civilization, and humanity as a whole to the brink of destruction. Eventually humans are able to overcome the zombies, but what is particularly interesting are some of the aftereffects of the pandemic. The world unites during the catastrophe, and afterwards there are some positive outcomes that seemed impossible without an apocalyptic event. For example, China and Cuba turn into thriving democracies, and most notably the Israelis and Palestinians make peace and form a unified Palestinian state. The Palestinian conflict is probably one of the most highly covered and contentious issues in the world, and the idea that apocalypse can make it right is entrancing to many viewers. Another example of this comes in The Dark Knight. One of the most powerful lines in the film is “The night is darkest just before the dawn”, and represents Gotham's rejuvenation following disaster. This one line encapsulates this idea of new hope emerging from apocalypse and destroyed worlds.

 Elaine Pagels touches on this phenomenon in Christian writings: “Whether one sees in John's visions the destruction of the whole world… his final vision suggests that even after the worst we can imagine has happened, we may find the astonishing gift of new life” (3). This idea of post-catastrophe rebirth and revitalization is one of the most appealing aspects of apocalyptic stories, and is a large part as to why we as a society are so enthralled with apocalypse. 

What is so fascinating about apocalyptic myths when the reality of such tragedies terrify us? 

The answer is that apocalyptic myths are fascinating because they terrify us. We keep watching these apocalyptic films because we want to be scared. Fear overtakes logic and augments the viewer's perception of the likelihood of the occurrence of an actual apocalypse. At the end of the apocalypse myth, there is a resolution which bears hope amid fear; the hope that in the case of the eschaton, you might be the one to survive and prosper, or the hope that you would be prepared because you know what's coming. When you are constantly presented with a myth like the apocalypse, it is hard to completely dismiss. The apocalypse inspires more fear the more it is adapted and retold because it continues to be relevant in our culture so it continues to be relevant in our fears. 

Apocalypse movies are set in surreal worlds that are laced with elements of reality as a way to inspire fear under the illusion of separation from this other world. In his graphic journalism piece "Apocalypse Left and Right" Dan Archer states that among the main tropes of apocalyptic cinema is historicity and that the setting of the film "happens in real time + space, in the context of human history." 

I get scared by movies very easily so I stay away from any movie that might possibly be unnerving in any way. That means I do not watch apocalyptic films. However I was fooled by the 2013 release This is the End. I thought that because it is a comedy that it would have no effect on me, but I was wrong. The comedic film uses realistic elements to make up for the lack of drama and intensity when it comes to inspiring fear. Instead of portraying characters, the actors play exaggerated versions of themselves in what disguises itself as a story of how these familiar celebrities act when they're not on camera. The film takes place in modern day Los Angeles and implements a relevant social setting-- a hip party in James Franco's mansion-- to help the viewer ease into the world in which the film takes place. The protagonists' reaction to the revelation of the apocalypse is even modern, displaying a relatable skepticism of faith. As ridiculous as it sounds, the movie scared me but I paid to see it again a week later. 

Gun Control: Political Controversies as Apocalyptic Scenarios

         When I first started thinking about modern day apocalyptic scenarios, my mind immediately went to terrorist attacks, nuclear bombs, natural disasters, etc. Dan Archer's article Apocalypse Left and Right helped me to realize that Apocalypse applies to issues on a much smaller scale and that the theme has a strong connection to politics. Archer notes prophets that speak out against abortion as "The ultimate human atrocities [which] singles the end of human society." Similarly, Tim Lahaye warns against homosexuality, claiming "when sodomy fills the nations cup of man's abominations God earmarks the nation for destruction." In these examples the prophets are not predicting the end of the world through physical destruction, but rather mankind's immorality (in their view). Another controversial political issue that could be deemed apocalyptic is the gun control debate. Although abusing weapons may not a bring total end to the world, it is a serious fear for many Americans that guns in the wrong hands could lead to major tragedy. Numerous school shootings and gun mishaps that seem to be occurring on a regular basis serve as real-life examples of this fear coming true. For the parents who's children are killed as innocent victims their world did ends. The same goes for the teachers, staff, and fellow students involved in school shootings with whom those tragic memories will remain forever. I see the prophets in the gun debate issue as the numerous political activists and parents of victims speaking out to create new laws. As in all other stories we have discussed, they are desperately pleading with the government and american public to make a change. Without these changes in our attitudes and ultimately our laws, more people will die and personal worlds will continue to come crashing down.
      The abortion and gay marriage debates align with typical political/religious affiliations. That is to say, the more conservative anti-abortion/homosexual groups finds support for their cause in Christianity. They are guided by the bible which tells them the end of the world is coming if these immoral acts persist. (Disclaimer- I am not trying to say ALL christians believe this or dismiss religion in any way) Alternatively, my gun control argument takes the opposite approach. It is typically the conservative side that argues for their right to bear arms, while the pro-gun control liberals are not led by a specific religious force. Does this lessen its legitimacy as an apocalyptic source? How exactly does the intersection between politics and religion play into how we view apocalyptic threats. Are they more believable and persuasive if are motivated by religion?