“Digger,” the newest movie from filmmaker Alejandro G. Iñárritu, was released on Oct. 2. It stars Tom Cruise as Digger Rockwell, an aging oil tycoon whose drilling sites cause a worldwide disaster. In the film, we see a surreal, dystopian America that does not seem far removed from current reality.
The film blends heavy hints of Americana and dystopia, giving it a boost of personality. Through its costumes and set design, the genius of the artists who made this film blends these two styles effortlessly. The costumes that Cruise wears are bright and almost eccentric, directly contrasting with the drab-colored world that Iñárritu paints for viewers. It works perfectly for the character, whose egotistic personality reveals his belief that he is a savior.
The set design is beautiful, making use of miniatures to show us what nature looks like in Rockwell’s world. It is an amazing expression of the side effects that oil production has on the world, depicting a barren, smoke-ridden America. Smog fills the sky; beautiful overhead shots are obscured by grey fog, plaguing trees and greenery. This not-so-subtle jab at the by-product of oil and gas production truly establishes the commentary that the film bathes in.
It tackles the theme of global warming and environmental concerns with grace, giving the film a deeply self-conscious approach. It perfectly critiques issues that modern society faces and does not tell a single lie while doing it. It is unapologetic in its messaging, creating a basis of speech that is indistinguishable from the truth.
At a climax of the film, Cruise delivers a 10-minute monologue about the impact that oil and natural gas production have had on the world. This scene in particular stands out, not just because of its impact on the story but because of how it is written. The writers truly took off here, allowing their issues with the world to flourish onto the page with grandeur. Their words shine through Cruise’s performance as he stomps around the room in a burgundy suit, bolo tie and cowboy boots.
Cruise’s performance as Digger Rockwell is what truly sets this film apart. Viewers cannot see him as the actor from “Top Gun” or “Mission: Impossible.” Instead, he’s an egotistical man who would rather watch the world burn around him than take responsibility for his actions. Cruise’s makeup in the film truly allows viewers to immerse themselves in his character. The 64-year-old actor used prosthetics to look old enough to portray the 65-year-old oil tycoon.
Joining Cruise in the supporting cast are John Goodman as President Compson, Riz Ahmed as Ganesh, Sandra Hüller as Emma and Jesse Plemons as Kenny. Each of these actors gives unique, bold and over-the-top performances that state their place among Cruise’s, garnering hope for the film despite its poor reviews.
It is surprising that “Digger” flopped as badly as it has, especially with Iñárritu coming off such a triumphant string of films including “The Revenant” and “Birdman.”
Financially, the movie failed, grossing just $8 million domestically and $21 million globally in its opening weekend. With a budget of almost $200 million, Warner Bros. Studios is set to lose about $150 million.
On top of its poor box office performance, the reviews for “Digger” do not help its case, having already been pulled out of theaters not even a week after its release.
Critics have stated their dislike for the satirical comedy that the film provides, calling it “unfunny” and missing the mark. The critics are valid in their criticism about most of the comedy not landing; the message of the film does land.
It delivers meta commentary on what it means to be a political bystander, sending the message: see something, do something.
It’s commentary on the oil and natural gas industries, along with humanities impact on the environment makes it a movie worth seeing.
RATING: 4/5
