A decade after its release, the science fiction film 'Elysium,' directed by Neill Blomkamp and starring Matt Damon and Jodie Foster, is being re-evaluated. Despite its initial mediocre reception and Blomkamp's own disavowal, the article argues that its pessimistic themes of wealth inequality, eroded civil liberties, and expensive healthcare are more relevant than ever, making it worthy of a second look.
Even Elysium’s director thinks his film is a mess – but a decade on, it deserves a second chance
CultureScience fiction and fantasy filmsNeill BlomkampMatt DamonJodie Foster
AI Summary
TL;DR: Key points with love ❤️A decade after its release, the science fiction film 'Elysium,' directed by Neill Blomkamp and starring Matt Damon and Jodie Foster, is being re-evaluated. Despite its initial mediocre reception and Blomkamp's own disavowal, the article argues that its pessimistic themes of wealth inequality, eroded civil liberties, and expensive healthcare are more relevant than ever, making it worthy of a second look.
- 1 2013: Elysium released.
- 2 2015: Neill Blomkamp stated 'I fucked it up' regarding Elysium.
- 3 2154: Film's setting.
- 4 Current: Article argues for re-appraisal.
- The film's themes are becoming more relevant, potentially leading to a re-evaluation of its artistic and social merit.
What: A re-appraisal of the 2013 science fiction film 'Elysium' is being conducted.
When: A decade on (from 2013 release); 2013 (film release); 2015 (Blomkamp's interview); 2154 (film's setting).
Where: Earth (overpopulated, polluted dust bowl in film); Elysium (luxurious space station in film); US (Matt Damon runs around in film).
Why: The film's themes of wealth inequality, eroded civil liberties, and prohibitively expensive healthcare are increasingly relevant in the current global climate, despite its initial mediocre reception and the director's self-criticism.
How: The article argues for a re-evaluation based on the film's visual aesthetic, its integration of future tech with a run-down world, and its pessimistic viewpoint which extrapolates current societal issues.