Reported by 4 sources

The short version

  • The film features Tom Cruise as an oil tycoon who ignores climate warnings, leading to catastrophic environmental consequences in Greenland.
  • Critics are divided, with some praising its ambitious visual style and thematic depth while others find it ugly, loud, and unpleasant.
  • Despite poor box-office numbers, the film is being discussed for its potential influence on climate change discourse.

Alejandro Iñárritu’s latest film, 'Digger,' has emerged as one of the most divisive movies of the year. The climate change allegory stars Tom Cruise in an unconventional role as Digger Rockwell, an oil tycoon who disregards warnings from scientists about drilling in the Arctic. The film has sparked intense debate among critics and audiences, with reactions ranging from acclaim for its boldness to criticism of its execution.

The plot centers on Rockwell’s decision to continue drilling despite evidence that a crack in the ice sheet is leaking methane into the atmosphere. When an explosion at his Greenland operation triggers a monstrous ice shelf to break off and drift toward Europe, Rockwell and the U.S. president, played by John Goodman, begin to panic. These characters are portrayed as avatars for real-life architects of the climate crisis, representing companies and governments that delayed meaningful action.

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Riz Ahmed plays Ganesh, a noble climate scientist who warns against the drilling. The film juxtaposes the bumbling bureaucrats and casual sexism of the powerful figures with the urgency of the environmental threat. Iñárritu’s direction is described as visually maximalist and thematically convoluted, aiming to capture the non-stop roar of contemporary times through sensory overload.

Reviews have been sharply divided. Some critics argue that the film’s grating nature is intentional, serving as a form of social commentary similar to films like 'Sorry to Bother You' and 'Uncut Gems.' They suggest that the cacophony reflects the unsettling reality of waking up to climate crisis news. One reviewer noted that despite being 'ugly, loud, and unpleasant,' the sensory experience was part of what made the film compelling.

Conversely, other critics have panned the movie for its lack of subtlety and excessive noise. A review in Grist highlighted that while some viewers hated it, others found it well-worth seeing for its ambition. The film’s poor box-office performance has not dampened the discussion around its themes, with some arguing that its divisiveness is precisely the point Iñárritu intended to make.

Tom Cruise’s performance has been a focal point of the critical discourse. Described as one of his weirdest roles ever, Cruise portrays a morally unsound character who becomes increasingly desperate as the environmental disaster unfolds. John Goodman’s portrayal of the president adds to the cartoonish depiction of power, with both actors serving as targets for ire and laughter within the narrative.

The film includes scenes of fiery accidents, decaying pet animals, and bouts of senseless violence, contributing to its chaotic atmosphere. These elements are designed to underscore the planetary collapse depicted in the story. Despite the negative reviews, some audiences have embraced the film’s unapologetic approach to addressing climate change.

The Carnegie Endowment for International Peace has suggested that 'Digger' may be one of the most influential climate movies yet. This perspective highlights the potential for the film to impact public discourse on environmental issues, regardless of its commercial success or critical reception. The debate over its merits continues as more viewers engage with its provocative content.

As the discussion around 'Digger' evolves, it remains a polarizing entry in Iñárritu’s filmography. While some see it as a misunderstood masterpiece that challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths, others view it as an overwrought attempt at social commentary. The film’s legacy will likely depend on its ability to sustain conversation about climate action beyond the initial wave of reviews.

Ultimately, 'Digger' serves as a mirror to societal attitudes toward environmental responsibility. Its divisive nature reflects broader tensions in how art addresses complex global issues. Whether praised or panned, the film has succeeded in drawing attention to the urgent need for meaningful action on climate change.

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