DON'T LOOK UP

The most recent film that Meryl Streep appeared in is the 2021 release, Don’t Look Up. This star-studded apocalyptic film is a biting satire of our culture’s current obsession with social media, approval ratings, and celebrity self-importance. This is interwoven with the ineptitude of our self-serving political system and the outrageous greed of the billionaire oligarchy. It’s a lot, and I believe this film is one of those that you will absolutely love, or completely loathe. It’s definitely not for everyone.

I enjoyed this movie so much that I’ve watched it three times. There are so many subtle bits of humor that make me laugh harder each time. The tone is set almost from the get-go, and the opening credits (retro 1960s) and soundtrack exacerbate that tone and drive the pacing throughout the film.

Kate Dibiaski (Jennifer Lawrence) is a non-conformist grad student working for astronomer Dr. Randall Mindy (Leonardo DiCaprio). Kate discovers in the first few minutes of the film that there is a giant comet headed directly at Earth and that it will most likely end all life on the planet. As they try and convey that information to the government, the press, and the public, they are met with huge obstacles as it seems no one wants to pay them any attention. DiCaprio is fantastic as Mindy, a socially awkward scientist who soon finds himself serving as part of the White House administration and becoming a media darling. Streep plays U.S. President Orlean, a former reality star who now holds the highest office, and Jonah Hill is her son and inept Chief of Staff. Cate Blanchette and Tyler Perry are the self-absorbed talk show hosts, and Mark Rylance plays billionaire tech genius Peter Isherwell to perfection!

When watching, make sure to stay through the closing credits as there are two added scenes. One occurs slightly after the credits begin to roll. The other scene is after the credits have finished. I’m giving this one a solid A! One of the best dark comedies I’ve seen in some time.

13 down, 27 films to go to complete my goal of viewing all movies that Streep has appeared in.