Downsizing: A Disappointingly Flat and Unfunny Take on Big Problems
In a near-future world grappling with ecological decline, overpopulation, and resource depletion, scientists discover an ingenious solution: shrinking humans to a fraction of their size. This “downsizing” process drastically reduces consumption and waste. While irreversible, it offers enticing benefits: tax breaks, luxurious living conditions, and the transformation of modest savings into fortunes. Paul and Audrey Safranek, weary of their cramped existence, decide to undergo the procedure and relocate to a lavish “mini-community.” However, Audrey backs out at the last minute, leaving Paul to navigate this strange new world alone. His personal life takes an unexpected turn when he befriends his eccentric neighbor, Dusan, and a Vietnamese activist who reveals the darker side of the downsized life.
Originally slated for production in 2009, “Downsizing” was shelved by Alexander Payne in favor of “The Descendants” and “Nebraska.”
Each new film by director Alexander Payne is like a “black box” for viewers. We anticipate his signature melancholic style, his compassionate approach to characters, and his ability to infuse even the most dramatic stories with humor. However, whether a film will resonate with us remains unpredictable. Some of Payne’s films succeed brilliantly, while others fall short, leaving us emotionally detached despite their humanist intentions. Sometimes, the spark simply isn’t there, and the individual elements fail to ignite a powerful emotional response.
“Downsizing” proves to be a surprisingly cold and sterile comedy. Despite its star-studded cast, ambitious premise, and aspirations to satire, the film feels dry, unfeeling, and strangely somber. The characters lack charm and appeal, the situations feel contrived, and the ending leaves a lingering sense of dissatisfaction. Payne was once celebrated for creating timeless, universally relatable films. Unfortunately, “Downsizing” is not one of them. It’s not just disposable; it’s a chore to watch even once.
The initial cast included Paul Giamatti, Reese Witherspoon, and Sacha Baron Cohen, but they were eventually replaced by Matt Damon, Kristen Wiig, and Christoph Waltz.
Where Did “Downsizing” Go Wrong?
The film’s primary flaw lies in its inability to engage us with compelling characters. No one takes the viewer by the hand and guides us through this extraordinary new world. Instead, the characters seem detached, self-absorbed, and even selfish. They act as if they don’t want us watching, behaving in deliberately crude and foolish ways that often become irritating. Matt Damon, unfortunately, falls short once again. As in the recent “Suburbicon,” his character remains distant and unrelatable, despite attempts to humanize him. Hong Chau’s character is even less sympathetic. While we should feel pity and support for her, the disabled Asian woman comes across in a way that makes us wish for her swift exit from the screen. Christoph Waltz is particularly disappointing, as the two-time Oscar winner is relegated to the most coarse, dull, and unintelligent role of his career.
An Overambitious Concept
The film’s concept itself suffers from significant flaws. Payne seems to be aiming for too many targets at once: a critique of consumerism, a fear of impending ecological collapse, concern for the fate of activists and dissidents, and dread of humanity’s potential extinction. However, he only manages to hit the outer rings of each target. Jokes about $80 diamonds feel forced, dialogues about taxes lead nowhere, anxieties fizzle out, and the final trip to the Norwegian underground bunkers clearly reveals the director’s own lack of faith in these “islands of salvation.” So why even tempt the viewer with them?
At times, “Downsizing” invites comparisons to “The Secret Life of Walter Mitty.” Both protagonists drastically change their lives, embark on journeys, and encounter unusual companions, all while being motivated to realize their desires and aspirations. However, Ben Stiller’s character achieved this in a touching and inspiring way, while Damon and Payne transform dreams and fantasies into a farce filled with toilet humor and awkward romance. This is a life that truly deserves to be cut short.