Introduction
Don’t Look Up is a 2021 American satirical science fiction black comedy written, produced, and directed by Adam McKay. Known for his unique blend of political satire and irreverent humor, McKay previously directed films like The Big Short and Vice. In Don’t Look Up, he shifts his focus to the public and their response about climate change and the science surrounding it, using the metaphor of a comet headed for earth to critique the government ineptitude, media trivialization, and societal indifference.
The film Don’t Look Up was released in select theaters in December 2021 as well as debuted on Netflix later that month. With a star studded ensemble, strong political commentary, and timely subject matters, the film was able to spark global discussion. Through the polarizing critical response to this film, it seems the movie emerged as Netflix’s most-watched original film, receiving multiple award nominations such as four Academy Award nominations.
Plot Summary
The plot revolves around astronomers Dr. Randall Mindy and Kate Dibiasky, portrayed by Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence, respectively. They find a new comet that is set to collide with Earth. The comet is about 10 kilometers wide and is predicted to collide within six months, leading to a mass extinction of life on Earth. Understanding the gravity of the situation, they notify NASA, the White House, and other authorities expecting an immediate response.
What follows is a nightmare of denial, a media circus, and absurd red tape. The president, portrayed by Meryl Streep, is dismissive of the comet and focuses more on her next midterm election while her son and chief of staff, Jason Orlean, is more concerned about their public image, rather than the life-threatening comet.
When the news does get publicity, the government uses it to boost its image, rather than attempt to destroy or redirect the comet, they delay any and all responses to the situation. This is followed by a military mission that is lead by a war-hero astronaut, and, for some reason, it is halted mid-flight.
Things take a turn with tech billionaire Peter Isherwell (Mark Rylance), CEO of BASH, who convinces the government to mine the comet instead of destroying it. He seems to embody a blend of today’s tech members like Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos, and Steve Jobs. BASH suggests smashing the comet into pieces using autonomous drones to mine it, a plan that seems driven by profit instead of science.
Dr. Mindy and Kate have public appearances that are supposed to raise awareness, but instead, the public sees entertainment, memes, and shouting contests. While Mindy is mocked as an attention seeker, Kate is ridiculed as aggressive. Shy and reserved Mindy falls for the fame and has an affair with talk show Brie Evantee (Cate Blanchett).
With the comet visible for everyone, the public is split further. The president’s fanbase begins a chant of “Don’t Look Up.” Scientists and the educated class are mocked, the facts are twisted and social media has turned into a space for conflict laden with lies. It doesn’t matter how many last calls for reasonable action are issued, political greed paired with a slimy corporate maneuver wins.
The climax focuses on the BASH mission tasked with fragmenting and mining the comet, which ultimately fails. With the impact now unavoidable, Dr. Mindy makes peace with his wife, rejoins with Kate, and partakes in an emotional final supper with family and friends. The final scene is both provdian and calm, sharply contrasting with all the chaos leading up to it.
Humanity is suddenly struck by a comet, leading to our extinction.
In a post credits scene, a group of elites which include President Orlean and Isherwell, are arriving on a new alien planet in cryogenic escape pods. Their future is unknown, and in a final twist, Orlean is killed by a dinosaur-like creature fulfilling a comedic prophecy made earlier in the film.
Cast and Characters
Dr. Randall Mindy: Leonardo DiCaprio. An anxious but well-meaning astronomer who becomes the reluctant public face of the crisis.
Kate Dibiasky: Jennifer Lawrence. A fiery, outspoken PhD student who first discovers the comet and struggles with the world’s indifference.
President Janie Orlean: Meryl Streep. A caricature of political vanity, self preservation, and ignorance, she is a synthesized version of many world politicians.
Jason Orlean: Jonah Hill. The president’s son and chief of staff. A poster child for nepotism and incompetence.
Mark Rylance as Peter Isherwell; a tech billionaire with a chilling demeanor who is more focused on profits than people.
Cate Blanchett and Tyler Perry as talk show hosts Brie Evantee and Jack Bremmer serve as the media representatives who treat serious topics as entertainment.
With supporting roles by Rob Morgan, Timothée Chalamet, Ron Perlman, and Ariana Grande, the film’s critique of politics, media, and celebrity culture deepens.
Themes and Analysis
- Climate Change and Scientific Denial
Don’t Look Up is essentially an allegory of climate change. The comet symbolizes any existential concern, particularly the threat of global warming. The film critiques the way society, especially those in power, refuses to acknowledge science, and instead chooses to politicize it.
- Media Sensationalism
The film critiques the media’s fixation on garnering high ratings and engagement. Despite Earth facing impending doom, television hosts and news reporters prioritize celebrity news, viral content, and maintain an upbeat demeanor.
- Political Incompetence and Corruption
McKay paints a bleak picture of contemporary politics, where ethical policymaking is replaced by the whims of poll numbers and donor interests. The president and her administration serve as exaggerated symbols of the failure to accept constructive leadership in the face of a crisis.
- Influence of Tech Billionaire
Peter Isherwell’s character serves as an exemplar of the unregulated authority and influence that comes with modern technology. His power to override governmental choices and decide on policies reflects the apprehensions of the present world corporate takeover.
- Human Vulnerability and Optimism
Despite the cynical approach taken throughout the film, its final scenes reveal a quiet, yet emotional, center. The film’s protagonists elect to embrace authenticity and greater human connection, suggesting that even in a calamitous world, some level of human dignity and love endures.
Critical and Audience Reception
Critics of the film were very much divided with the praise and criticism of Don’t Look Up. While one segment applauded the film’s bold satire, cast performances, and the relevance of its message, others felt that the film’s approach was too chaotic and lacking in subtlety. The film’s blunt approach was a double-edged sword.
Though the critics had mixed reviews, one thing was for sure, Don’t Look Up had high viewership numbers. The film became one of the most watched films on Netflix, garnering over 100 million views within weeks of its release. The film was later nominated for 4 academy awards which include – Best picture, Best original screenplay, Best Film Editing and Best Original score.
Conclusion
Don’t Look Up is an undeniably provocative film that blends dark comedy with the urgency of an impending apocalypse. It showcases the failures of modern society, and the satire and absurdity of it all is what makes the film even more revealing.
Even if it is controversial, it manages to get people talking. It forces people to think about how the truth is accepted today in a world ruled by profits, political divides, and constant distraction. Featuring A-list Hollywood actors and an important story based on genuine concerns, Don’t Look Up is one of the most discussed films of its era, both for entertainment and for the disturbing issues it brings up.
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