Don’t Look Up (2021)
Two astronomers (Jennifer Lawrence and Leonardo DiCaprio) go on a media tour to warn humankind of a planet-killing comet hurtling toward Earth. The response from a distracted world: Meh.
What an excellent surprise DON’T LOOK UP turned out to be. If you’re looking for an entertaining and amusing satire about what’s gone so wrong in our world when it comes to handling crises, check it out. In the face of an impending comet about to destroy the world, we see how politicians, social media, conspiracy theorists, and a range of other groups and individuals, do their best to keep their heads in the sand and rationalise away any action that deals with the issue. It’s obvious that the comet represents the world’s response to climate change — but it’s broader than that and explores an enormous range of characteristics or our modern world.
There are some big-name actors in DON’T LOOK UP: Jennifer Lawrence, Leonardo DiCaprio, Meryl Streep, Cate Blanchett, and more. The characters they play are brilliantly constructed and the story and pace work perfectly together to make this comedic movie profoundly serious when you start thinking about it. The satire is almost not satire — it’s so close to the truth that it could easily tip over into documentary!
Ariana Grande and Scott Mescudi, as well as playing characters in the film, also collaborated on the song “Don’t Look Up” which is in the movie. It’s a great song! DON’T LOOK UP is a fresh and original movie with heaps to say and explore. The National Board of Review and American Film Institute have named it one of the best films in 2021. It’s already received four nominations at the 79th Golden Globe Awards including Best Picture – Musical/Comedy and six nominations from the 27th Critics’ Choice Awards including Best Picture. Don’t miss it!
(In cinemas in Australia – check your movie guide for your local show times. It can also be seen on Netflix from December 24.)
OTHER MOVIES I’VE SEEN:
The French Dispatch: Visuals are excellent but the movie is boring.