Directed by
Jaco Van Dormael
Made by
Music Box Films
Read the complete plot summary and ending explained for The Brand New Testament (2016). From turning points to emotional moments, uncover what really happened and why it matters.
Ea, the sole daughter of God, resides in a dilapidated apartment in Brussels with her extremely callous and cynical father and her submissive mother. God, a dreadful parent, finds himself perpetually bored by the sheer monotony of existence. The only escape from his unbearable routine comes from his sadistic inclination to impose meaningless “laws” that relentlessly disrupt the joys of everyday life. However, unlike her brother who also struggled under their father’s oppressive rule, Ea is a sensitive soul who can no longer tolerate her father’s paranoia.
Determined to finish the quest her brother had begun, she embarks on a mission to liberate the universe from her insanely disturbed father. In a bold move, she first destroys her father’s computer and then reveals the death dates of every individual. With her newfound freedom, Ea must gather six apostles—remarkably ordinary people caught off guard by the shocking knowledge of their own mortality.
Ea assists each apostle in uncovering their true selves, guiding them to recount their individual journeys, and encouraging them to pen their unique gospels. These narratives reflect the wisdom learned through life’s trials, their passions, and pivotal moments that shaped who they are. Meanwhile, God initiates a relentless pursuit of these apostles, gradually coming to grips with the harsh reality of the cruel world he has fashioned and the fact that his powers are beginning to diminish.
Follow the complete movie timeline of The Brand New Testament (2016) with every major event in chronological order. Great for understanding complex plots and story progression.
Ea's Life Under God's Rule
Ea lives in a dilapidated apartment in Brussels, where she is raised by her callous and cynical father, God. Her mother is submissive and unable to stand against God’s oppressive nature, shaping a dismal environment for Ea.
God's Boredom
God finds himself trapped in the monotony of existence, often succumbing to boredom. To alleviate this, he imposes arbitrary laws that disrupt the lives of those under his rule, showcasing his sadistic tendencies.
Ea's Awakening
Unlike her brother, who struggled under their father's paranoid control, Ea's sensitivity leads her to a critical awakening. She reaches a point where she can no longer tolerate the oppressive atmosphere created by her father's paranoia.
Destruction of the Computer
In a bold act of defiance, Ea destroys her father's computer, a symbol of his control over the universe. This destructive act signifies her commitment to liberating not just herself but also those affected by her father's arbitrary rules.
Revealing Mortality
After eliminating her father's control, Ea reveals the death dates of every individual in the universe. This shocking knowledge prompts an existential awakening, forcing everyone to confront their own mortality.
Gathering the Apostles
With the mission of liberation underway, Ea sets out to gather six apostles, ordinary people who are taken aback by the reality of their own mortality. These selected individuals represent the diverse array of humanity.
Assisting the Apostles
Ea takes on the role of guiding each apostle as they embark on a journey of self-discovery. She aids them in uncovering their true selves, encouraging them to explore their individual narratives.
Writing Unique Gospels
Each apostle begins to write their unique gospels, reflecting on the wisdom they have gained through life's challenges. These narratives capture their passions and pivotal moments that have influenced their identities.
God's Relentless Pursuit
As Ea helps the apostles, God initiates a relentless pursuit of them, determined to reestablish his control. This chase illustrates his desperate attempt to retain power as he realizes the consequences of his own actions.
God's Realization
Throughout the pursuit, God slowly comes to grips with the harsh reality of the world he has created. As his powers begin to wane, he confronts the implications of his sadistic laws and the pain they have inflicted.
Impact on the Universe
The actions of Ea and her apostles begin to ripple through the universe, altering the lives of the individuals who learn about their mortality. Their awareness fosters deeper connections and a greater appreciation for life.
Transformation of the Apostles
As each apostle embraces the lessons learned from Ea, they undergo significant personal transformations. Their newly awakened environments challenge them to live authentically and to recognize the value of their existence.
Climactic Showdown
A climactic showdown occurs as God's influence diminishes and the apostles unite to assert their independence. This pivotal confrontation highlights the overarching themes of rebellion against tyrannical authority.
A New Beginning
In the aftermath of the struggle, the universe begins to heal as individuals embrace their mortality and newfound freedom. Ea's quest culminates in a brighter future, promising a new beginning for humanity.
Legacy of the Apostles
The tenets and teachings shared by the apostles become a lasting legacy, inspiring future generations to live fully and authentically. Ea's mission not only changes lives but redefines the essence of existence itself.
Explore all characters from The Brand New Testament (2016). Get detailed profiles with their roles, arcs, and key relationships explained.
Ea
Ea is the sensitive and courageous daughter of God, embodying a deep empathy that sets her apart from her father's cold demeanor. Determined to change the oppressive landscape of existence, she seeks to empower others while grappling with her own identity. Ea’s persistence and compassion drive her quest to liberate individuals from their fated despair.
God
The character of God is portrayed as a bored and cynical figure, disconnected from the joys of life. His oppressive nature creates a tumultuous environment for his family, reflecting a complex portrayal of divinity that contrasts with the compassionate actions of his daughter. As he confronts the consequences of his actions, he begins to see the fragility of his power.
Learn where and when The Brand New Testament (2016) takes place. Explore the film’s settings, era, and how they shape the narrative.
Time period
The movie navigates through a contemporary setting reflecting modern existential questions and family dynamics. It challenges societal norms and the concept of divinity in present day, producing a story that resonates with both the absurdity and seriousness of human life.
Location
Brussels
Brussels, the capital city of Belgium, is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. It serves as the political center of the European Union and is famous for its picturesque squares, such as the Grand Place. The city is also characterized by its blend of modern and historical influences, making it a unique place for various narrative explorations.
Discover the main themes in The Brand New Testament (2016). Analyze the deeper meanings, emotional layers, and social commentary behind the film.
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Redemption
The theme of redemption runs deeply throughout the film as Ea embarks on her mission to liberate individuals from the constraints imposed by her father's laws. Her journey encourages both her and her apostles to confront their pasts and seek personal growth. Through the act of revealing their death dates, they are urged to live authentically and embrace their mortal truths.
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Familial Strife
The strained relationship between Ea and her father, God, illustrates the impact of parental influence on personal identity. Ea's rebellion against her father's oppressive nature showcases the struggle for autonomy and self-definition amidst familial expectations. This theme highlights the complexities of love, support, and the desire for understanding within family dynamics.
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Self-Discovery
Ea's quest is not just to challenge her father's rules, but to facilitate self-discovery among the apostles. Their journeys resonate with themes of individuality as they learn to voice their experiences into gospels. This theme exemplifies the power of storytelling as a means of understanding oneself and finding purpose.
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