Adam McKay Highlights “Popular Response” to ‘Don’t Look Up’ Despite Critics and “Cultural Gatekeepers That Hated It”

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Adam McKay feels that his movie, “Don’t Look Up,” and its underlying messages, have never been more applicable than they are now. Despite being released over three years ago and garnering mixed opinions from critics, it was well-received by audiences. As of now, “Don’t Look Up” ranks second among the most-watched movies on Netflix.

The director recently told NME why he thinks the film is so beloved with audiences at home.

The number of people who watched that film is approximately between 400 million and 500 million. They all seemed to resonate with the theme of gaslighting, which is experiencing deceit from leaders, media, and industries. It was amusing when I discovered that shared connection; of course! It’s a universal feeling in this current global neoliberal economy we’re living in, a cancer that everyone seems to be affected by.

2021 saw the debut of a movie boasting an illustrious ensemble cast featuring Leonardo DiCaprio, Jennifer Lawrence, Meryl Streep, Cate Blanchett, Jonah Hill, Tyler Perry, Timothée Chalamet, Ariana Grande, and Kid Cudi. The film’s topics related to climate change continue to resonate, as stated by its director McKay, who has been a dedicated environmental activist for years.

I found myself reflecting on the impact of those massive events we’ve been witnessing. It’s easy to dismiss a movie in such times, seeming as trivial as it may be. Yet, what truly captivated me was the groundswell of support from the audience, not the criticisms or judgments of the elite critics.

McKay also expressed his feelings about the L.A. fires, having lived in the city for a long time. “We’re devastated, fearful, and sorrowful,” he stated. “Many of our friends have unfortunately lost their homes.” He added that during disasters in Southern California, media often portrays it as worse than it is. However, this time, he found himself having to reassure loved ones that the situation is even more dire than what’s being shown on TV.

The Oscar-winning individual expresses concern that we’re living in a deeply concerning period. In many aspects, our economy has evolved into a ticking time bomb, no longer catering to the requirements of typical working people. It seems indifferent to massive destruction, wars, insufficient healthcare, predatory lending, and particularly, climate change.

He went on to say: “That’s the issue that can’t easily be solved once we surpass certain critical stages. Once these tipping points are crossed, changes in climate, biodiversity loss, or patterns become virtually impossible to reverse. It’s quite extraordinary to live during this era and have even a basic understanding of the world’s current state.

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2025-01-18 00:54