Absolutely Anything (2017) Characters, Setting & Themes Explained

The movie is set in London, which serves as the vibrant backdrop for Neil Clarke's journey. The city is described as a place where the mundane meets the fantastical, reflecting the essence of humanity and providing the perfect setting for an ordinary man's encounter with cosmic powers.

• london setting
• uk location
• british comedy

The movie takes place in contemporary modern day. The time period reflects current society where characters navigate personal relationships and moral dilemmas, emphasizing how individual choices impact both personal and global scales.

• modern day
• contemporary
• present time

The film explores power and responsibility as its central theme. Neil's journey highlights the consequences of his whims as he discovers that selfish desires can lead to chaos and unintended repercussions. The narrative emphasizes using power for the greater good rather than personal gain.

• power
• responsibility
• choices
• consequences

Neil Clarke is an overlooked teacher played by Simon Pegg who unexpectedly receives extraordinary powers from an alien council. His evolution from a vindictive individual to someone burdened by responsibility showcases his internal struggle as he grapples with the chaos his actions create and learns valuable lessons about empathy and selflessness.

• neil clarke
• simon pegg
• main character
• protagonist

Catherine West, played by Kate Beckinsale, is Neil's love interest in the movie. She embodies independence and vulnerability, navigating the complexities of her relationships with Neil and her ex, Grant. Her journey reflects the challenges of love when faced with misunderstandings and external chaos.

• catherine west
• kate beckinsale
• love interest
• romance

Dennis is Neil's beloved dog who becomes the voice of reason and selflessness throughout the chaotic events. His loyalty and insight culminate in a crucial moment where he encourages Neil to relinquish his powers for the greater good, embodying the theme of true friendship and thinking beyond oneself.

• dennis
• dog
• talking dog
• voice of reason

An alien council grants Neil Clarke the ability to do absolutely anything, unbound by rules or consequences. They task him with proving Earth's value and demonstrating why the planet deserves to be saved, forcing Neil to grapple with the implications of unlimited power while facing the threat of humanity's potential extinction.

• alien council
• aliens
• cosmic powers
• earth survival

Romantic relationships are central to the storyline, particularly Neil's pursuit of Catherine and the misunderstandings that arise. The film explores love, obsession, and the longing for genuine connection. Neil's misguided wishes ultimately unravel his relationships until he learns to value genuine sentiment over superficial desire.

• love
• relationships
• romance
• obsession
• connection

The unpredictable nature of Neil's powers creates significant chaos, leading to dire consequences for himself and humanity. This theme illustrates how well-intentioned actions can spiral out of control, bringing unforeseen challenges. It serves as a reminder that even small choices can have global ramifications.

• chaos
• consequences
• unintended consequences
• global impact

Colonel Grant serves as the film's antagonist, representing obsessive love and jealousy. His determination to reclaim Catherine leads to conflict with Neil, embodying the theme of rivalry. The chaos surrounding him emphasizes the consequences of unhealthy relationships and possessiveness.

• colonel grant
• antagonist
• villain
• rival
• jealousy

Ray is Neil's supportive friend who often finds himself entangled in Neil's chaotic wishes. His character brings humor and friendship dynamics into the storyline, offering a contrast to Neil's burdens. Ray's reactions to Neil's newfound powers highlight the absurdity and unpredictability of their circumstances.

• ray
• friend
• comic relief
• supportive friend