'Leave the World Behind' Premieres on Netflix

The Obama-Produced Psychological Thriller Explores Society's Breakdown Amid a Global Crisis

Netflix's 'Leave the World Behind' is a psychological thriller directed by Sam Esmail, starring Julia Roberts, Ethan Hawke, and Mahershala Ali, and produced by Barack and Michelle Obama's production company, Higher Ground.
The film, premiering on December 8, is based on Rumaan Alam's novel and explores themes of race, affluence, and responsibility against the backdrop of a cyberattack-induced apocalypse.
Reviews highlight the film's exploration of contemporary malaise, tech anxiety, and societal breakdown, with strong performances from the lead actors.
Julia Roberts and Ethan Hawke's characters play a couple whose vacation is interrupted by the arrival of the house's owners, played by Mahershala Ali and Myha'la, who bring news of a worldwide crisis.
The film has been praised for its pacing, visual delights, and exploration of the human condition under extreme circumstances.