Wondering if This Is the End is worth your time? Many movies are a waste. Nobody wants to waste hours on something dull. But relax, viewer. We will explore this apocalyptic comedy to see if it’s a delightful ride or a cinematic disaster.
Is This Is the End Actually Good? Spoiler: It's Hilarious
This Is the End is good. Scratch that. This Is the End is hilariously good. If you enjoy self-deprecating humor, celebrity roasting, and absurdity in Hollywood, then this movie is for you. Famous Monsters called it "the most fun experience I've had in a theater in a long time." Who are we to argue?
If you want highbrow Oscar-winning drama, look elsewhere. James Franco may claim it's high art, but it’s trash. Sometimes trash is what you need. It’s like a greasy pizza after a tough week – not good for you, but satisfying.
What's the Point? Celebrity Self-Roasting and Apocalypse Shenanigans
So, what's This Is the End about? A bunch of celebrities play exaggerated versions of themselves, stuck in James Franco's house while the world goes to hell outside. There’s more than just celebrity cameos and demons. Some see a sweet peek into friendships.
The movie mocks public personas. It lets actors poke fun at themselves. It’s a meta-comedy about Hollywood, egos, and fame's absurdity. It’s gorier than the ads suggested. Don’t expect a warm PG-13 apocalypse; this film is R-rated all the way.
This Is the End critiques the apocalypse trope itself. In a world stuffed with YA dystopian stories and disaster scenarios, it laughs at Armageddon. It offers a breath of fresh air in a genre that often gets too serious.
The Plot Thickens (and the World Ends)
Let's dissect the chaotic plot. The setting is Hollywood, where James Franco throws a housewarming party. The guest list includes Jonah Hill, Seth Rogen, Jay Baruchel, Danny McBride, and Craig Robinson, all in exaggerated versions of themselves.
Mid-party, the biblical apocalypse crashes in. Chaos erupts, L.A. crumbles, and Tinseltown's elite face gruesome ends. Franco’s house becomes a refuge amid chaos. Trapped together, six friends must deal with the outside apocalypse and their inside drama. Friendships will be tested, egos will clash, and maybe some possession will add excitement. For more details, check IMDb’s plot summary.
Not a Flop, But a Rapturous Success
This Is the End was not a box office bomb. Quite the opposite. It received critical acclaim and was a commercial hit. Critics praised its chemistry among the six stars. Seth Rogen, James Franco, Jonah Hill, Jay Baruchel, Danny McBride, and Craig Robinson together create comedic magic.
This Is the End found financial success too. With a budget around $32 to 41.9 million, it made an impressive $126 million worldwide. That profit would make studio execs smile. To summarize, This Is the End was not a flop. It was a hit and showed comedic chemistry’s power in apocalyptic absurdity.
The Cast: A Bromance for the Ages (and the End Times)
The secret sauce is not just the apocalypse; it’s the cast's chemistry. Critics praised this dynamic between the leads. You can't fake that timing and rapport. It’s magic born from real friendships among funny people.
Backstreet's Back... In the Apocalypse?
Do you wonder if the Backstreet Boys are in This Is the End? The text doesn’t confirm or deny their cameo, but it features surprise celebrity appearances. Keep your eyes out; you might spot your favorite 90s boy band in the madness. Or maybe not. Anything is possible in This Is the End.
Improv-o-Rama: 85% Pure, Unadulterated Improv
Ever curious how much dialogue was scripted versus improvised? According to Evan Goldberg, one of the film's directors, "85 percent" was improvised. Incredible! Hollywood rarely does this. Goldberg said, "The movie was mostly improv." Sometimes it begs to go one way and sometimes another. In this case, it clearly preferred improvisation.
This reliance on improvisation gives it a raw feel. It’s like eavesdropping on friends – famous comedians facing the end times. Actors had a framework but riffed and bounced off each other’s energy. The outcome is pure comic gold. For more details on this process, see Evan Goldberg’s interview with Entertainment Weekly: Evan Goldberg on how much of 'This Is The End' was improvised.
Why So Good? Iconic Moments and Cast Brilliance
What makes This Is the End special? Several factors contribute to its comedic brilliance. First is cast chemistry. But outside just chemistry, each cast member shines. Danny, Seth, James, Craig, Jonah, and Jay all have moment to land comedic punches.
This movie is filled with memorable lines too. It features "some truly iconic scenes and lines." Yes, the notorious "cum scene" stands out for better or worse depending on your taste.
Despite shocking moments, the movie is funny, witty, and engaging. Some may feel the runtime is long. Yet, it keeps you laughing and entertained.
Emma Watson: Leaving Set and Setting Boundaries
Now, let's discuss the elephant in the room: Emma Watson. She briefly left the set of This Is the End. Her decision has become legendary, shedding light on the film's humor and Watson's boundaries.
The Gimp Suit Scene and Watson's Exit
The main issue was a scene with Channing Tatum in a gimp mask. Yes, a gimp mask. The scene had Tatum in a leather thong, led on a chain by Danny McBride, who had become a cannibal. Charming, right?
Reportedly, Watson "wasn't a fan of the scene." It's easy to understand. It was much. Allegedly, Tatum even breakdanced in his thong. Ultimately, Watson's scene did not make the final cut. Instead, we saw her as herself, robbing the guys’ house and wielding an axe.
As one account put it, "Emma Watson had her limits, and This Is the End pushed them." When Tatum arrived in his thong, Watson walked out. Seth Rogen later said she was "right to do so." Even Rogen realized they might have gone too far.
Male-Focused Humor and Watson's Discomfort
Beyond the gimp-suit incident, it's clear Watson felt uncomfortable with the overall "male-focused humor" of the film. This Is the End is steeped in bro-comedy sensibilities. It's raunchy and irreverent. Many find it hilarious; others may not, including Watson.
So, did Emma Watson enjoy her stint in This Is the End? Probably not. While she appeared in a cameo, her walk-off incident suggests it wasn't harmonious. Still, it shows Watson's strong sense of self and her willingness to uphold her boundaries.
Emma Watson: Almost Leaving Hogwarts?
This was not her first time considering leaving a major franchise. Rumors say she almost quit Harry Potter midway. In a reunion special, it was revealed she contemplated leaving her role as Hermione Granger. The pressures of fame and long filming schedules weighed on her. Thankfully for fans, she stuck around, but her thoughts about leaving Hogwarts relate to her This Is the End walkoff.
Emma Watson Now: Beyond Acting and Finding Her Voice
These days, what's Emma Watson up to? Has she given up acting after that comedy? Not really. Although she took a step back from acting lately, it isn't a retirement. She is choosing projects aligning with her values and exploring creative avenues.
Why the Hiatus? Feeling "Caged" and Seeking Control
Watson stated she took a break because she "wasn't very happy" with the industry. In an interview, she admitted, "I felt a bit caged." The pressure and lack of creative control contributed to her dissatisfaction. "I had to sell something I didn't control," she explained.
Watson is prioritizing her "own voice and autonomy." She wants more than to recite lines; she aims to be a creator with agency over her work.
What's Emma Doing Now? Writing and Directing
If she isn't acting, what is she doing? Emma Watson is busy with creative pursuits. She’s enrolled in a creative writing MA program and honing her skills behind the camera. In 2022, she directed a short film for Prada. She also wrote a play, reinforcing her dedication to writing.
The pandemic allowed her time to explore these passions further. Her goal? To star in roles she's written herself. It's an exciting new chapter for her career.
Love Life and Literary Pursuits: Current Relationship
On a personal note, Emma Watson's life is also making headlines. She's reportedly dating Kieran Brown, a PhD student she met while studying in England. They were spotted kissing in Oxford, confirming their romance. While Emma studies creative writing, Kieran focuses on 19th-century literature and economics.
Bank Account Balance: Emma Watson's Net Worth
Even with her Hollywood break, Emma Watson's finances are solid. Her estimated net worth stands at $85 million. That's plenty for writing programs and short films like Prada’s. Interestingly, she ranks as the "second richest Harry Potter star," behind Daniel Radcliffe. Still, $85 million offers significant comfort for pursuing passions without financial stress.
Brain Power: Emma Watson's IQ
For those curious about her intelligence, Emma Watson boasts an IQ of 138 points. This places her in the "highly intelligent" category. It comes as no surprise given her articulate interviews and thoughtful career approach.
Real-Life Friendships: Are They Buddies?
This Is the End shows genuine chemistry among cast members. It feels like you’re watching friends hanging out together. But is their camaraderie real or just acting?
Jay and Seth: Longtime Pals
Good news for fans: Jay Baruchel and Seth Rogen are friends in real life. They are collaborators and genuine pals. They've worked on many films and shows together over the years, forging strong bonds on and off screen. They even share a birthday month—April!
Their friendship is evident in their work together.
It definitely shines through in This Is the End.
Seth Rogen revealed he was shocked by the insults among actors during filming. The line between playful banter and real insults blurred at times. Rogen needed to intervene and remind them they are friends. The friendships ultimately prevailed, despite the meta-humor bleeding into reality.
Danny McBride and James Franco: Pineapple Express Origins
What about Danny McBride and James Franco? Are they actually friends? Yes, they are. Their friendship has interesting origins. They met on the set of Pineapple Express, a stoner action-comedy starring Seth Rogen. McBride and Franco hit it off during filming. Their friendship has lasted years.
Fun fact: McBride wrote the script for Your Highness, and Franco liked the film because of The Dark Crystal from his childhood. They share some quirky cinematic tastes along with their friendship.
The Franco-Rogen Friendship: A Casualty of Controversy?
However, not all Hollywood friendships can last forever. The bromance between James Franco and Seth Rogen appears to have hit a snag. Following allegations against Franco, Rogen stated in 2021 he would not work with Franco again.
Franco acknowledged the rift in a 2022 interview by saying he had not talked to Seth. He expressed love for Seth but recognized their relationship was over. It's sad for fans of their collaborations and highlights the complexities of Hollywood relationships.
Paul Rudd and Seth Rogen: Almost Two Decades of Bro-dom
On a brighter note, Paul Rudd and Seth Rogen's friendship appears to be thriving. They have enjoyed a near 20-year friendship. They worked together on multiple projects, showcasing a strong bond. Rudd calls Rogen the most unaffected person he has ever met. That is high praise in Hollywood.
Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum: Off-Clock Company and Professional Pairings
What of Jonah Hill and Channing Tatum? Do they enjoy each other's company off-screen? Reports suggest Hill and Tatum work well together and enjoy each other's presence. While not best friends, they have a positive working relationship outside filming.
Jonah Hill often turns professional collaborations into long-term friendships. He cites relationships with Michael Cera and Leonardo DiCaprio as examples.
Leonardo DiCaprio and Jonah Hill: Still Buddies Post-Wolf of Wall Street?
Speaking of DiCaprio and Hill, are these co-stars still friends? It seems so. Hill stated they are friends and have worked together. They would often talk and hang out during filming, helping reduce any initial intimidation of working with a mega-star.
Emma Watson and the Harry Potter Crew: Still in Touch?
Finally, let's look at Emma Watson and her Harry Potter days. Is she still in touch with Rupert Grint and Daniel Radcliffe? Yes, indeed. Watson confirms the Harry Potter cast keeps in touch. They may not have daily group chats, but they do speak individually.
Rupert Grint sends Watson pictures of his daughter, which she finds delightful. After the final battle of Hogwarts, the strong bonds remain.
James Franco's Heavenly Rejection and Earthly Demise
In This Is the End, not everyone gets a ticket to heaven. Ironically, James Franco's version of himself is denied entry. Why was Franco left behind while Seth, Jay, and Craig ascended to paradise?
Franco's Failed Sacrifice and Divine Disapproval
The movie shows Franco attempting a sacrifice to prove his worthiness for the Rapture. However, his plan fails spectacularly. In his act of supposed selflessness, he mocks McBride for being stuck on Earth. This lack of humility led to his undoing. "God saw it as proof that Franco did not change." Thus, he did not deserve his ticket.
Real-Life Franco: Sexual Misconduct Allegations and Career Fallout
The fictional Franco's fate pales compared to real-life controversies. James Franco has faced serious allegations that impacted his career.
Sexual Misconduct Settlement and Admission
Franco admitted to sexual relations with students during his time as an acting school teacher. This admission led to lawsuits and a $2.2 million settlement in 2021. The allegations have cast a long shadow over his career and life.
Seth Rogen's Professional Breakup with Franco
The allegations led to Rogen's public distancing from Franco. Rogen's statement about not working with him again shows a shift in Hollywood dynamics and a growing awareness of accountability.
James Franco: PhD Aspirations and Academic Pursuits
Despite controversies, Franco is a figure of multifaceted interests. He is working on a PhD in English from Yale University. Yes, that is correct. PhD. From Yale. This follows multiple master's degrees he has already earned.
A Hodgepodge of Higher Education: UCLA, Columbia, NYU, and More
Franco's pursuit of education parallels his acting career. He earned a BA in English from UCLA in 2008 after dropping out for acting and returning for classes. He obtained an MFA in creative writing from Columbia in 2010, publishing a collection of short stories titled Palo Alto that year.
Franco also studied at a filmmaking program at NYU and enrolled in Brooklyn College for fiction writing. He earned yet another MFA from Warren Wilson College. He loves to learn, even if his academic pursuits seem eclectic.
Is That Really Franco's House? Art and Furnishings in This Is the End
For eagle-eyed viewers, This Is the End - Franco's newly built home - raises a question. Is that actually James Franco's house? It's a fictionalized version but plays into the idea of being James Franco's house. The place is filled with absurd art pieces reflecting his unconventional tastes.
Love in the Time of Controversy: Franco's Current Relationship
Despite controversies, Franco's personal life continues. His current girlfriend is Isabel Pakzad, an actress and director. Pakzad transitioned from advertising to acting in the entertainment industry. Their relationship seems strong amid ongoing scrutiny.
Franco's Death... Wait, Wrong Franco!
Now, things get a bit confusing. If you search "What happened when Franco died?" you might stumble upon information
about... Francisco Franco, the dictator of Spain. There are two famous "Francos" in culture. Their fates are very different. Franco, the dictator, "died in 1975 at 82" and is buried in Spain. This Franco, of course, is not actor James Franco. Context is vital, especially when Googling similar names.
Why Exhume a Dictator? Francisco Franco's Controversial Burial
The question "Why did they exhume Franco?" refers to Francisco Franco, not James. His exhumation was political. It aimed to address his dictatorship legacy and honor victims of his regime. This motion was part of a larger effort. The goal was a "truth commission" for the victims of fascism in Spain. This has nothing to do with actor James Franco. It shows the complexity of historical figures sharing names with modern celebrities.
Did Franco Do Any Good? The "Spanish Miracle" and Economic Policies
Franco's Lana Del Rey Obsession: "I Fell in Love..."
Returning to James Franco, the actor, there's an interesting tale about his attraction to singer Lana Del Rey. James once stated, "I fell in love with Lana Del Rey, but I wasn't the kind of man she sought." He reportedly made this claim in 2015. He was said to have been "chasing her for a long time." Whether it was a real pursuit or just him being himself is unclear. It's a quirky detail that adds mystery to James Franco's public persona.
Plot Twists and End-of-Days Mayhem: This Is the End Plot Points
Let’s recap key plot points and wild moments from This Is the End.
Danny McBride's Demonic Fate: Left Behind to Perish
What becomes of Danny McBride in This Is the End? While Seth, Jay, and Craig go to heaven, Danny's fate is much darker. He remains on Earth with cannibalistic survivors, seemingly to "perish as Satan and his demons destroy Earth." It is a darkly hilarious conclusion for McBride's loud character.
Paul Rudd's Cameo and Accidental Manslaughter
In a brief cameo, Paul Rudd shows up in This Is the End, arriving late at Franco's doomed party. In a darkly comedic scene, Rudd accidentally "crushes" James’ assistant, Karen, upon entry. It's a quick, brutal moment displaying the film's absurd humor.
Jay's Hole-y Mishap: Dropping David Krumholtz (and Himself)
During earthquake chaos, Jay Baruchel tries to save David Krumholtz from falling into a sinkhole. In a slapstick twist, Jay drops Krumholtz "into the hole." As if that isn’t enough, Jay himself then falls "into the hole." Luckily for him, he "survives" and manages to get back inside to relay grim news about Los Angeles' apocalyptic destruction.
The Ending: Heaven, Castration, and Wish Fulfillment
The conclusion of This Is the End is as wildly absurd as the rest of the film. As Seth and Jay try to ascend to heaven, Jay...
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