Imagine bracing for the apocalypse, not for ideological purity or reinforced moral boundaries, but to protect your family from complete extinction. That's precisely what the 2020 action-packed thriller 'Greenland' manages to achieve, starring Gerard Butler, as it takes viewers on a white-knuckle journey through a world staring doom square in the face. Directed by Ric Roman Waugh, this film dives into the chaos and upheaval when cataclysmic events threaten human existence. Not set in a distant dystopia but an all-too-familiar contemporary Earth, it's a thrilling family saga with enough grit to captivate most audiences.
In classic action-movie style, 'Greenland' follows John Garrity (Butler), who embarks on a treacherous journey to save his wife, Allison (Morena Baccarin), and their son, Nathan (Roger Dale Floyd), from a planet-killing comet named Clarke. When the world is breaking down into lawlessness and chaos, the notion of family becomes the apex of survival. Instead of screaming for more government handouts, John relies on good old determination and bravery, something today's culture seems to have put on the backburner.
Now, let's touch on the specific ten cringe-worthy liberal sensitivities 'Greenland' directly or indirectly challenges:
Family First, Not Big Brother: 'Greenland' reinforces the idea of the family unit as the ultimate support system. In the midst of the impending disaster, John and Allison's drive to protect their child serves as a stark contrast to an overbearing government narrative. This isn't a call for help from the central authorities; it's a reaffirmation of personal responsibility.
Self-Preservation Over Entitlement: The movie depicts the instinct for self-preservation over dependency, an admirable trait often diluted by the modern entitlement society. John doesn't demand shelter; he fights for it, showing initiative rather than reliance—a concept seemingly too radical for utopian thinkers.
Inherent Chaos vs. Peace: Let's face it, the world isn't a kumbaya drum circle. 'Greenland' pushes back against the idealistic view that everything can be resolved with a hug. Together, we see the inherent chaos of crowds and the disorder of panic—a vivid depiction when society faces its most primal fears.
Real-World Preparedness: When the doomsday strikes in the film, the savvy and courage to navigate extreme situations are put to the test. Instead of relying solely on advanced scientific solutions or large-scale government interventions, it emphasizes individual preparedness. Acts of courage, resilience, and leadership shine through.
Rule of Law, Anyone?: As expected, in the absence of order, there's violence and lawlessness. 'Greenland' subtly highlights the importance of rule of law and order—another idea that often gets overshadowed in requests for leniency and understanding toward disruptive behavior.
Natural Selection: In the survival of the fittest narrative, only a chosen few in 'Greenland' get the chance to board the rescue planes to safety. The film distills the harsh reality that not everyone can be saved—a bitter pill for those who believe in equal outcomes irrespective of effort.
Action Over Talks: Actions speak louder than words. John Garrity isn’t engaged in lengthy debates or moral dilemmas. He is a man of action, emphasizing the need to 'get the job done' over endless chatter—a refreshing contrast to the dialogue-heavy climate of today.
Men of Action: Gerard Butler’s character stands as a testament to traditionally masculine virtues. Both courageous and protective, Butler’s strong, decisive role is a slap in the face to those who vilify masculine strength and leadership.
The Harsh Truth: 'Greenland' doesn’t wrap life’s struggles in pretty bows. Life under threat isn’t fair, nor is it considerate of political correctness. The unpredictability and unfairness the film embraces remind us of the reality often whitewashed by idealistic narratives.
Resilience Amidst Doom: The ultimate lesson from 'Greenland' is one of resilience. You forge ahead, remaining stronger together, even when faced with destruction. A narrative bereft of self-pity, championing unity among loved ones as the tonic to world-ending calamity.
Despite silly criticisms that allege science isn't taken seriously in the film, 'Greenland' has enough thrills and moral fiber to carry its message. While the visual spectacle and gripping performances stand out, it's the values of strength, independence, and unity that ground the film in realism. Whether every viewer agrees isn't the point—what 'Greenland' really does is challenge those who willingly bury their heads in the sand over uncomfortable truths.