Logline:
DON’T LOOK UP tells the story of two low-level astronomers, who must go on a giant media tour to warn mankind of an approaching comet that will destroy planet earth.
You can believe what you want but facts are facts. It’s no secret that there has been an attack on science as of late, however, I think it’s safe to say that the only thing new about the situation is the level of misinformation that comes behind it. Unfortunately, truth seems to be a fleeting concept because it no longer belongs to everyone. It only belongs to those who buy into a certain narrative, it’s now subjective for some reason. And in many instances with multiple truths, there are actually only many lies and subterfuge. However, if a giant boulder is rolling downhill at great speeds and your house is in its path, it’s going to flatten your home whether you believe it or not.
“It’s horrific and beautiful at the same time.”
Every once in a while, right when the world begins to ignore all glaring warning signs or completely lose its shit, a movie comes along to show us just how ridiculous we presently are. In 2006 as we began to become obsessed with our screens and rely too much on technology, among other things, there was Idiocracy to show us a devolving society that we somehow failed to avoid. Now, as the climate continues to detrimentally change and mother nature seeks revenge due to our lack of environmental diligence, it is time to take another hard look at ourselves by way of film. Don’t Look Up is an absurdly brilliant satirical comedy that is sure to ruffle some feathers. This film is a perfect storm of sorts. Perfect timing, writing, cast, and conclusion. Nothing says wake the hell up like impending doom. And that’s exactly what the film wants to get across through its topical humor and caricatures without being overtly obvious. If we don’t get our heads out of our butts, look up, and pay attention to the global crisis that is climate change, then life as we know it will come to an end for everyone way sooner than it should.
The hilariously smart laugh-riot is simultaneously a moment where we laugh at our pain and stupidity but also, a contemplative journey of would we as a global society be prepared to defend our planet from total obliteration. Sadly, I don’t think any of us feel confident enough to definitely say, yes we are. We tend to take too long, move too slow, and wait until the last minute. Hell, that’s why we’re in the predicament that we’re in now, that and greed. Written and directed by Adam McKay, Don’t Look Up excels at observation and delivers said observation back at you like your favorite stand-up comedian. The way the film is edited with its purposeful quick and abrupt cuts is humorous and it holds your attention for its entire runtime, the star-studded cast is beyond phenomenal, and its song, Just Look Up is funny but also sounds great. This film is a lot of fun, you’ll be laughing from beginning to end. Its rewatchability is high.
Pacing & Pop
I loved the pacing of this film. Coupled with its editing, there isn’t a dull moment in sight. Where the pacing really succeeds is that every time you get a little comfortable, it throws something else at you. However, it still holds true to the story and what it’s trying to accomplish. What popped for me was the comedy. I can’t think of too many other movies that made me laugh out loud this year as much as this one. Also, I think the dinner scene is now one of my favorite scenes of all time.
Characters & Chemistry
Starring: Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Meryl Streep, Jonah Hill, Mark Rylance, Cate Blanchett, Tyler Perry, Rob Morgan, Himesh Patel, Ron Perlman, Timothée Chalamet, Paul Guilfoyle, Melanie Lynskey, Ariana Grande, Scott ‘Kid Cudi’ Mescudi
With a cast full of Oscar winners, you expect great things. Well, great things are what we got from them. Leonardo DiCaprio is as advertised, one of the GOATS. The return of Jennifer Lawrence is one to be celebrated as she crushed her performance and is my favorite character in the film. However, Meryl Streep, the actual GOAT, and Jonah Hill steal the show. They are a duo that I never knew worked so well as a comedic pair. There are a ton of other familiar faces making this film really fun like Where’s Waldo. Furthermore, the chemistry throughout is through the roof making this one of the funniest films of the year.
Don’t Look Up begins streaming on Netflix on December 24, 2021. Stay safe and enjoy.
Director: Adam McKay
Writer: Adam McKay
Producers: Adam McKay, p.g.a. & Kevin Messick, p.g.a.
Executive Producer: Jeff Waxman
Editor: Hank Corwin, ace
Rated: R
Runtime: 2h 18m
Rating: 4.5 out of 5
Senior Critic. Observing the human race since 1988.
