Watercooler Pick
The Age of Stupid
- Movie
- Rating: PG-13
- Release Date: 2009
- Runtime: 92
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A sobering synthesis of documentary and dystopian sci-fi, The Age of Stupid features a future archivist watching circa 2009 footage of climate change and wondering, “Why didn’t humans stop climate change when they had the chance?” His “archival” clips take viewers around the rapidly deteriorating globe, from the thawing Alps to Katrina-devastated New Orleans to oil-soaked Nigeria, and beyond. Taken together, each narrative shows how the characters, and the viewers, are interconnected by a common tragedy — one we have the power to rewrite.
A novel presentation of the issues at hand, the film’s dated footage only increases its impact: it’s been a decade since this movie’s release and the story remains largely the same. It’s hard to watch this movie and not be inspired to change one’s own behavior.
This is a perfect film to share with people who either don’t believe in climate change or need a nudge to be more responsible stewards of our planet.
The Age of Stupid contains disturbing documentary footage of disaster, disease, and death wrought by climate change. While such imagery is part of its power, it’s best avoided by people triggered by trauma. Whoever watches it, though, it will change you.
Andrew Belonsky
