Crafting an airplane movie that stands out from the rest is no easy feat, as highlighted by Swedish filmmaker Ruben Östlund. His latest project, “The Entertainment System Is Down,” takes on the challenge of creating a compelling narrative set on a long-haul flight where the entertainment systems fail. This premise forces an eclectic group of international passengers to confront the horror of sheer boredom. Östlund’s previous success with the Palme d’Or-winning satire “Triangle of Sadness” sets the stage for his innovative approach to storytelling in the confines of an aircraft.
In a surprising turn of events, Östlund and his producer, Erik Hemmendorff, purchased a real-life Boeing 747 to serve as the primary setting for the film. This acquisition early in the production process presented a unique challenge for the team. Östlund admitted, “We bought the plane, and it was quite early in the process of the film. So suddenly it was like, ‘Oh, we have to make this film.'” The decision to film on a studio lot over 70 days added another layer of complexity to the project, with Östlund acknowledging the struggle of maintaining energy and motivation in a static environment.
Delving deeper into the plot of the film, Östlund revealed a pivotal moment where a man falls asleep beside his wife after the entertainment systems malfunction. The wife, faced with boredom, resorts to unlocking her husband’s phone, only to discover his infidelities. This revelation sets the stage for an emotional roller coaster as the couple navigates the turbulent waters of their relationship while confined on the long-haul flight. Kirsten Dunst and Daniel Brühl take on the roles of the beleaguered married couple, adding depth and complexity to the narrative.
Joining Dunst and Brühl in the cast are acclaimed actors Keanu Reeves and Nicholas Hoult, bringing a wealth of talent to the ensemble. Brühl shared a serendipitous encounter with Östlund that led to his unofficial casting in the film, while Dunst underwent a rigorous audition process to secure her role. The collaboration between the cast and crew promises to deliver a compelling portrayal of human drama in the confined space of an airplane.
During a press conference, Dunst fielded questions about her experience working with Scandinavian filmmakers and drew comparisons between Östlund and Lars Von Trier, her director on “Melancholia.” While Dunst navigated the delicate question with care, her response underscored her commitment to working with creators who push the boundaries of cinema. This dedication to artistic exploration and risk-taking adds depth to the conversation surrounding “The Entertainment System Is Down” and its potential impact on audiences.
Östlund expressed his anticipation for the film’s premiere at Cannes in 2022, marking his return to the prestigious festival. “The Entertainment System Is Down” represents his second English-language film and the culmination of his extensive experience in the industry. With a track record of critical acclaim and innovative storytelling, Östlund’s latest project promises to captivate audiences and redefine the conventions of traditional filmmaking. As the film navigates the Cannes Market, eager anticipation surrounds its potential reception and impact on the cinematic landscape.