'Don't Look Up' is Adam McKay's latest dramedy/satire which is eerily relatable to the real-world. It's a home-hitting gut punch that drives an all too real message about the devastating effects of climate change in an increasingly volatile social world.
While some critics have argued that 'Don't Look Up' communicates its message all too directly and without refined subtlety, the film may not necessary need subdued mood building in order to inform audiences of what it is trying to say.
Sometimes audiences simply want a movie that they can enjoy, reflect on and leave the cinema feeling satisfied in doing so. Deep, moving and metaphysical imagery aren't always the hallmarks of a good movie, in many cases diving too 'deep' into a message can cause confusion and burnout.
This isn't to say that 'Don't Look Up' isn't deep or meaningful. It is, and is strengthened with Leo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence absolutely nailing their roles, with an equally superb performance by Meryl Streep. Ron Perlman’s depiction also warrants a strong mention here.
No, this film's strength lies in the directness of its message. The 'in your face' type reminder that our days on this Earth are numbered, and that the forces designed to ensure our survival, will often act in the best interests of the elite rather than that of the common people. Even if this means the destruction of the entire Human species.
What 'Don't Look Up' does well extends to its brash and sometimes overt messaging of the extent of apparent state capture of the government towards corporations. It is very obvious that the film is mirroring the relationship between the U.S. Government and the likes of Amazon, Apple, Microsoft, Tesla et al.
Some have already written that the raw and sometimes visceral relatability of the movie hits too close to home, and that this alone represents a failure on part of Adam McKay to more creatively get his theme across to audiences. But I would counter this by also saying that the same raw brazenness is precisely what makes 'Don't Look Up' a fantastic film.
We sometimes need to be told, loudly, how government's all around the world feel towards the common folk - in this example, portrayed by DiCaprio's Dr. Mindy. Dr. Mindy himself is an expert, who is brushed aside by authorities owing to his lack of 'credentials' - meaning, his not having Ivy League qualifications.
Despite this, Dr. Mindy is otherwise a characteristically average man. Albeit, one who cheats on his wife and succumbs to the government's attempt to deride responsible solutions to the incoming comet crisis - even if for a moment.
This portrayal speaks to the flaws in all of us. But what is more interesting is that, despite his obvious awkwardness, Dr. Mindy remains more 'real' and concerned for the welfare of the planet than those who are tasked with defending that same welfare.
Adam McKay's 'Don't Look Up' may not win any Oscars, or go down as one of 2021's best films. But it has a message, and it sends that message across decently and in a way that can be related to by a very large variety of moviegoers and Netflix demons.
What's more is that 'Don't Look Up' is relatable to many of us - and this is where it shines.
3.5 / 5.0