Don't Look Up

FULL SPOILER-FREE REVIEW @ https://www.msbreviews.com/movie-reviews/dont-look-up-spoiler-free-review "Don't Look Up hilariously approaches almost every theme worthy of discussion through Adam McKay's satirical screenplay that will undoubtedly leave viewers either incredibly satisfied or extremely triggered, depending on their opinion about certain subject matters. Boasting an absolutely stellar cast, Netflix grabs a bold, divisive awards contender. Packed with allegories, references, and direct jokes surrounding all kinds of media, governments, socio-political topics, and environmental issues, McKay doesn't hold back, which might be a decisive factor in the audience's response. The cast offers unbelievably great performances, but without the protagonists Leonardo DiCaprio and Jennifer Lawrence, viewers would definitely look down to their phones instead of paying attention to the film. A fun flick to watch during the Christmas season." Rating: B+

This is of course social and political satire, and it is sad how much of it rings true. It can be difficult to satirize the excesses of the rich and famous — or even the redneck poor — and the social media juggernaut. But the script clicks on all cylinders a lot of the time and entertains as it eviscerates. I have always liked Mark Ryland’s roles, and this is a real departure for him as the media giant and third richest human ever. But I mostly found it difficult to like Dr. Mindy as he gradually adjusts his beliefs and personality to suit his new fame. My sympathy was with his wife and family, afterthoughts for 95% of the movie. But it was an entertaining movie and I would be willing to watch it again someday, not because of the serious issues it raised (slightly) but just to catch more of the social media and television images that flash across the screen too quickly to take them all in. The social media satire works better, I think, than the political side, which seemed sometimes to just choose an actual person and thrust a version of them into the scene.