Biosphere 2023
Plot Summary
After a global apocalypse has decimated the human population, the only survivors are two childhood friends: Billy, the former President of the United States, and Ray, a scientist who was once Billy’s adviser. Carrying the weight of guilt for his perceived role in causing the apocalypse, Billy and Ray find solace in a protective dome constructed by Ray that shields them from the harsh realities of the outside world. They maintain a modest fishpond, but unease sets in when the last surviving female fish dies, leaving them with only two male fish, one of which is showing signs of distress.
One night, while working late, Ray stumbles upon a fascinating discovery: the remaining fish appear to be undergoing sequential hermaphroditism, a process that allows them to change sex to continue breeding. To his astonishment, he notices a vivid green light shining outside the dome. The following morning, Ray shares his findings with Billy, only for Billy to realize that he too is undergoing sequential hermaphroditism, which means his body is gradually developing female characteristics.
This revelation leaves Billy feeling distraught about the changes overtaking his body, while Ray becomes increasingly fascinated by the phenomenon. However, their dynamic shifts as Ray finds himself uncomfortable when he touches Billy, particularly when physical intimacy leads to unexpected feelings of arousal. As the fish begin to breed, Billy confides in Ray that he has started menstruating and suggests that they consider having a child together. Struggling with deep-seated homophobic beliefs instilled in him during his upbringing, Ray hesitates and pulls away from Billy, causing tension between the two.
Despite the emotional upheaval, their bond begins to strengthen when they decide to pursue intimacy with the aim of procreation. Their initial attempt is shrouded in modesty, with a sheet covering Billy, yet as the moment unfolds, Ray’s reservations dissolve, and they share a kiss. Soon after, Billy finds out he is pregnant, and this development brings them closer together.
Their newfound intimacy faces a significant challenge when a fierce storm hits, shattering the dome’s windows and forcing them to dismantle the fishpond in a desperate attempt to seal the breaches. The subsequent morning brings a surprising sense of awe as they witness the aurora borealis lighting up the sky, a sign that the weather may be shifting. However, the reality of their dwindling food supply compounds Ray’s distress as the death of their fish takes its toll. In a moment of encouragement, Billy recalls a story from Ray’s eighth birthday, urging Ray to cling to hope amidst their uncertain future.
Timeline
Global Apocalypse
A catastrophic global event leads to a massive decimation of the human population. This apocalyptic scenario sets the stage for the story, leaving only a small number of survivors.
The Survivors
Two childhood friends, Billy, the former President, and Ray, a scientist, become the last known survivors. They take refuge in a protective dome constructed by Ray, shielding them from the harsh realities of the apocalypse outside.
The Fishpond
Billy and Ray maintain a modest fishpond within the dome, which symbolizes their attempt to cultivate life in a barren world. Tension arises when they realize the last surviving female fish has died, leaving them with two male fish.
Discovery of Sequential Hermaphroditism
While working late one evening, Ray makes a groundbreaking discovery about the remaining male fish demonstrating sequential hermaphroditism. This revelation highlights a potential for breeding, bringing a glimmer of hope in their isolated world.
Billy's Transformation
The following morning, Ray informs Billy about the fish's ability, only for Billy to realize he is experiencing similar changes. He begins to develop female characteristics, leading to feelings of confusion and distress about his identity.
Emotional Tension
As Billy's transformation begins, Ray finds himself increasingly uncomfortable with their physical interactions. This change ignites underlying feelings of arousal in Ray, complicating their longstanding friendship.
The Subject of Parenthood
Billy confides in Ray about starting to menstruate and suggests the possibility of having a child together. This conversation challenges Ray's beliefs and causes him to hesitate, deepening the tension between them.
Pursuing Intimacy
Despite their emotional struggles, Billy and Ray decide to explore intimacy. Their first attempt is anxious yet tender, highlighted by a sheet for modesty, but it culminates in a significant kiss where their feelings begin to reconcile.
Pregnancy News
Shortly after their intimate moment, Billy discovers he is pregnant. This unexpected news brings a newfound closeness between the two friends, as they navigate this new chapter of their lives together.
The Storm
A fierce storm strikes, causing widespread destruction as it shatters the windows of their dome. In a bid to survive, Billy and Ray frantically work together to seal the breaches and protect their fragile sanctuary.
Aurora Borealis
The morning after the storm, Billy and Ray are awestruck by the sight of the aurora borealis illuminating the sky. This spectacle serves as a brief respite, suggesting changing weather patterns and a potential for hope.
Dwindling Resources
As they bask in the beauty outside, Ray becomes increasingly troubled by their dwindling food supply. The pressure intensifies as they grapple with the harsh realities of survival after the storm.
A Story of Hope
In a heartwarming attempt to provide comfort, Billy recalls a story from Ray's eighth birthday. This gesture encourages Ray to hold on to hope, even amidst their dire circumstances.
Characters
Billy (Mark Duplass)
Billy, the former President, grapples with guilt over the apocalypse and is forced to confront deep-seated emotions about his identity and intimate relationships. His journey of transformation leads him to experience significant physical and emotional changes, including the realization of his pregnancy. Billy’s desire for connection drives the narrative, highlighting his vulnerability and resilience.
Ray (Sterling K. Brown)
Ray is a scientist who experiences fascination and discomfort as he witnesses the effects of sequential hermaphroditism on himself and Billy. His inner conflict regarding intimacy and societal norms creates tension within their relationship. Ray’s character arc reflects a struggle to reconcile his upbringing with his feelings for Billy, ultimately seeking a deeper connection despite his fears.
Setting
Time period
Post-Apocalypse
The events of the movie occur in a post-apocalyptic setting, where societal structures have collapsed, and the human population is drastically reduced. This era is marked by survival, loss, and the exploration of new identities, as the remaining individuals grapple with their circumstances and the remnants of civilization.
Location
Dome, Outside World
The movie primarily takes place inside a protective dome, which serves as a sanctuary for the last two survivors after a global apocalypse. This dome is their refuge from the harsh realities outside, where the world has been decimated. Outside the dome lies a desolate environment, characterized by chaos and uncertainty.
Themes
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Identity
The film explores themes of identity and transformation, particularly through the phenomenon of sequential hermaphroditism. As Billy and Ray navigate their evolving identities, the movie delves into their emotional struggles and societal perceptions surrounding gender and sexuality. This theme is portrayed through their intimate relationship and the challenges posed by their changing bodies.
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Connection
Connection and intimacy are central themes as Billy and Ray seek to deepen their bond amidst the uncertainties of their existence. Their journey reflects the search for companionship in the face of adversity, revealing how love can emerge even in the most unexpected circumstances. The film captures the tensions and triumphs of their relationship as they confront their fears together.
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Survival
Survival is a prominent theme, as Billy and Ray contend with the realities of a dwindling food supply and external threats. Their struggle to maintain their fishpond and secure their food sources highlights the harshness of their world. The film powerfully illustrates the lengths they will go to preserve their lives and the importance of resilience in the face of turmoil.
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