Carol and the end of the world – Review
One of the most thought-provoking shows I’ve watched recently is Carol and the End of the World, a limited animated series on Netflix. Set in a world facing imminent destruction from an approaching asteroid, the show offers a compelling exploration of human behavior in the face of an unavoidable end. While many characters choose to abandon societal norms and indulge in newfound freedoms, others struggle to let go of the routines and structures that have defined their lives—Carol being one of them.
I found Carol to be an incredibly relatable character. She is portrayed as introverted and somewhat withdrawn compared to her more social family members, finding comfort in a simple routine of work and home life. Many of us can identify with this kind of structure. But as the impending disaster leads to the closure of workplaces, Carol faces a crisis: what does one do when the work that once provided stability and purpose is no longer necessary?
A particularly moving scene shows Carol watching the news, where people are seen enjoying their last days with phrases like “Carpe Diem” splashed across the screen. In a quiet moment of reflection, Carol breaks down in tears, capturing the all-too-familiar feeling of watching others seize the moment while you remain stuck in place. This moment powerfully resonated with me and evoked a deep sense of shared experience.
As the story unfolds, we see Carol, along with others like her, seeking refuge in what remains of corporate structures—holding on to the familiar comforts of a 9-to-5 schedule and the hierarchy of office life. It struck me as a poignant commentary on how some individuals define their identity and purpose through work, often using it as a means to avoid confronting deeper personal issues. The workplace is depicted as a sanctuary for those who feel lost without it, a place for people to bury themselves in tasks to escape the chaos of the world outside.
However, the series doesn’t leave us in despair. It offers a powerful metaphor through the illustration of burning matchsticks: just one match stepping away can prevent the others from burning out. In this case, Carol becomes that matchstick—a symbol of hope and human connection. Without revealing too much, the series beautifully portrays the importance of connection, reminding us that no one is an island and that meaningful relationships can reignite a sense of purpose, even for those who find it difficult to connect with others.
Through Carol’s story, we see that personal growth and the journey to self-realization can come in unexpected ways and often through connections with unlikely individuals. Her transformation toward the end of the series, where she begins to pursue her aspirations, is a testament to the idea that it is never too late to chase your dreams—even with the world on the brink of destruction.
The series also introduces several other characters, each with their own unique struggles and stories. These narratives emphasize themes of regret, self-awareness, and the importance of making the most of the time we have left. The show left a profound impact on me, particularly because of how much I identified with Carol’s experience. It serves as a reminder to step out of our comfort zones, embrace change, and seek out human connection.
Carol and the End of the World is available now on Netflix, and I highly recommend watching it. It’s a thoughtful, introspective series that has inspired me to take action in my own life and pursue the things that truly matter. Watch it here.