Synopsis
Scientists discover that shrinking people to only a tiny fraction of their present volume and mass is the best way to solve humanity’s overpopulation problem. Paul Safranek (Matt Damon) and his wife Audrey (Kristen Wiig) decide to become citizens of Leisureland, a luxurious downsized community. Their new size would not only benefit the world but the Safraneks as well since normal paychecks go a much longer way in Leisureland. Tiny living triggers a series of adventures and reveals big meanings to everyone involved.
What I liked about it
- “Downsizing” is a movie that makes you think about the big themes of humanity. Overpopulation, personal responsibility, willingness to risk and/or sacrifice comfort, willingness to change, how significant moments test personal relationships, etc.
- The imagery is fantastic, especially in the second part of the movie. There is a contrast between what you escape via downsizing and what you have a chance to save – a beautiful world.
- “Downsizing” it’s atypical. Everything changes from one moment to the other in an unpredictable way. It keeps you watching.
- Matt Damon is once again great in a role you didn’t see coming.
What I didn’t like about it
- I said above that “Downsizing” keeps you watching due to its dynamical storyline. It does. But it doesn’t actually go anywhere. The whole movie is like a 2H 15min beginning. Nothing really develops and it’s disappointing since there are moments when it seems that it’s going to go for a really big theme in a very interesting way.
- The trailer and other official presentations make it seem a comedy. It’s not. In fact, I believe several online platforms have already changed the category from Comedy/Sci-fi to Drama/Sci-fi. I too believe it’s Drama.
My favorite scene
- Matt Damon’s character gets high at some point at a party in Leisureland. This is making him dance by himself as if in a trance. A good metaphor for letting go. You can see it in the trailer above at 1:57.
WHERE TO WATCH “DOWNSIZING”
HBO Go (Europe) | Amazon Prime Video
Movie Data
Year: 2017. Main Cast: Matt Damon, Christoph Waltz, Hong Chau, Kristen Wiig, Rolf Lassgård, Ingjerd Egeberg. Company: Paramount Pictures (presents); Ad Hominem Enterprises (uncredited).
MY RATING
3/10 Pineapples
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