Bill Gates Asks What’s Next? in his Netflix Series, but What’s the Point?

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As a seasoned cinephile who has witnessed the evolution of technology and its impact on society over the decades, I must confess that my initial excitement for “What’s Next? The Future with Bill Gates” was short-lived. While it is commendable to have such a thoughtful and influential figure like Bill Gates delve into pressing global issues, the series seems more focused on perpetuating his public image rather than offering tangible solutions or meaningful discourse.

In the year 2024, the rapid progression of artificial intelligence, climate change, and wealth disparity raises profound existential questions, as posed by tech pioneer and ex-Microsoft CEO Bill Gates in Netflix’s latest docuseries titled “What’s Next? The Future with Bill Gates”. This 5-part documentary was launched on the platform on September 18, 2024, and delves into a variety of topics, including the potential dangers posed by AI, the expanding income inequality gap, strategies for mitigating climate change, and other critical issues that jeopardize human life and well-being.

So far, the 5.6 IMDb rating for What’s Next has led some people to interpret harsh criticisms as personal attacks on Bill Gates, when in reality they are directed at the series content. Although some criticism may be valid, the main issue is whether Gates presents a genuine blueprint for future change or if the thought-provoking documentary leaves us with more questions than answers.

The Premise of What’s Next

Titled “What’s Next? The Future with Bill Gates,” this is a five-part Netflix documentary series. The series, directed by various directors for each episode, features Bill Gates – the globally recognized technology pioneer who co-founded Microsoft. Throughout the series, Gates poses profound questions about the future of mankind, delving deeply into potential existential risks such as artificial intelligence, climate change, income disparities, and infectious diseases.

To open-source AI innovators like OpenAI, ChatGPT, and others, Bill Gates invites thought leaders and intellectuals for a dialogue on the advantages and disadvantages of AI technology. In Episode 2, “Truth or Consequences,” James Cameron, a fan of science fiction, likens the present-day AI to early stages of dementia in humans, where disorientation, frustration, and diminished control can lead to existential risks. Later on, Bill Gates collaborates with Lady Gaga to address the dangers of misinformation online. In this digital landscape, falsehoods frequently replace facts, and sociopolitical conspiracy theories proliferate. Gates aims to safeguard a fair and unbiased 2024 Presidential Election.

In Episode 3 titled “Can We Conquer Global Warming,” Gates delves into the feasibility of combating climate change, considering the financial trade-offs future generations may face. It’s noticeable at this stage in the documentary series that Gates seems to have more questions than solutions, leaving viewers questioning the purpose of the show and its intended goals.

In Episode 4 titled “Is Wealth Overwhelming?”, host Bill Gates facilitates a conversation between past U.S. presidential candidates Bernie Sanders and Mitt Romney, delving into the growing divide between the affluent and those struggling financially. Despite being one of the world’s wealthiest individuals, it can be challenging for some to listen to him discuss wealth’s significance. However, what stands out most is that the documentary series appears to concentrate more on Bill Gates as an individual, instead of emphasizing the significant global issues he brings up.

Too Much Focus on Bill Gates’ Personality

A common criticism of the show What Next is that it spends too much time on Bill Gates instead of offering practical advice, solutions, or insights concerning the pressing issues discussed. Instead of delivering concrete answers or significant news about the topics, Gates invites other professionals to discuss various technological aspects. These experts may seek guidance from him and rely on his input to support their research. Frequently, Gates appears to lack definitive solutions and continues asking questions instead of providing actionable responses.

The show “Truth or Consequences” delves into various theories concerning Bill Gates’ private and professional affairs, aiming to disprove them. Topics ranging from reptilian beings to population control to microchip vaccines are scrutinized to absolve Gates of the allegations, which often deviate from the main issues discussed in the episodes that most viewers expected. Instead of focusing on critical topics per episode, an excessive amount of time is dedicated to his personal life.

In the concluding episode titled “Can We Outsmart Disease,” Bill Gates engages in conversation with public health expert Anthony Fauci to explore how technology can combat infectious illnesses. This episode, rated 5.5 on IMDb, brings the documentary series to a subdued close, leaving some viewers questioning its purpose. While some perceive the docuseries as an attempt to endorse the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, others view it more as a personal narrative than a captivating exploration of the world’s future and mankind’s role within it.

So, What’s the Point?

As a movie reviewer, I found that “What’s Next” steers away from delving deeply into the philosophical implications of 21st-century technology and instead serves as a testament to Bill Gates’ philanthropic endeavors and insatiable curiosity. The series attempts to unravel the complex web connecting technology, politics, wealth, climate, and information dissemination, but it seems more focused on retracing our steps than painting a vivid picture of the future with conviction or optimism. I was hoping for thought-provoking insights or a motivating call to action from someone as brilliant, resourceful, and impactful as Bill Gates.

Despite a significant amount of airtime dedicated to showcasing Bill Gates’ viral videos such as jumping over chairs or dabbing with his daughter Phoebe making humorous comments, there seems to be a trend where these lighthearted moments overshadow more substantial topics like AI, climate change, wealth disparity, etc. By devoting so much time to polishing his public image and emphasizing his charitable efforts, these critical issues are brushed over lightly, losing their importance, as each episode appears less impactful.

It’s somewhat surprising to observe Gates presented as less than the all-knowing figure he’s often portrayed as, particularly because he seems to be looking towards the next generation for solutions to our global challenges. However, the content of What’s Next falls short and even raises questions about its purpose, as it appears more focused on Gates himself rather than addressing the urgent technological, environmental, and economic issues that affect us all.

What’s Next? The Future with Bill Gates is available to stream on Netflix.

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2024-10-05 02:31