Image from Netflix
By Kendal Furman
Netflix’s new release “Don’t Look Up” has been criticized as being too outlandish to be taken seriously. Even with hilarious moments, incredibly comical actors, and a far-out, almost unbelievable plot, to some, the movie still appears to be just another classic comedy. But don’t be fooled – the film’s use of blatant satire, which serves as a disturbed reflection of our own world, makes this masterpiece a pertinent and eye-opening watch.
The movie focuses on Michigan State Professor Dr. Randall Mindy and one of his most promising astronomy Ph.D. students Kate Dibiasky. After they discover an unknown comet that is set to collide with Earth in roughly six months, with a 99.78% chance of planet-wide extinction, the film follows Kate and Dr. Mindy’s unbelievable struggle to convince both political elites and the public to take these concerns seriously. “Don’t Look Up” takes a jab at the corrupt political climate of the U.S., the mishandling of the climate crisis, the media’s role in spreading false information, and the greediness of corporate America. The movie is refreshingly pessimistic and unapologetic, revealing how even something undeniably dangerous can be twisted and turned into a political tool and used to increase the power and wealth of elites, while also dividing the public. This life-threatening comet serves as an allegory for climate change, demonstrating how corporate and political elites will prioritize their own personal gain over the needs and safety of the public.
With an unhappy ending, “Don’t Look Up” does what any influential satirical piece should by placing the need to disturb its audience over the need to be well-liked. In order to achieve tangible change, satirical pieces must focus on making their audience uncomfortable to get them thinking critically, even if that means enduring some unkind reviews from those who prefer their movies to end with a “happily ever after.” The sheer amount of scathing critiques published in response to the film demonstrates its effectiveness in upsetting viewers by exposing the harsh truths of today’s society. Despite the anger it incited from many audience members, the film set a “new record for the most viewing hours in a single week on Netflix, and went on to become the second most-watched movie on Netflix within 28 days of release.” The mass popularity that “Don’t Look Up” gained points to its success in kickstarting important conversations in hopes of facilitating change – even if many couldn’t appreciate its impeccable use of satirical hyperbole and cynicism.
With a stellar team off-screen and a fabulous cast filled with icons like Meryl Streep, Jonah Hill, Jennifer Lawrence, Timothée Chalamet, Leonardo Dicaprio, Ariana Grande, and Tyler Perry, the film is captivating, hilariously put-together, and perfect at grabbing your attention and keeping it. It weaves knee-slapping comedy seamlessly with bitter realism to create a movie that will confuse you with its ability to be simultaneously the funniest and most grim thing you’ve seen all year.
Regardless of how politically engaged you are, “Don’t Look Up” is a must-watch for any GW student looking for a laugh that’s more complex and layered than your average corny comedy. This film’s power is in its ability to get you thinking, and once you start, I guarantee you’ll find it hard to stop.
