Crafting a compelling airplane movie is no easy feat, according to Swedish filmmaker Ruben Östlund. In a recent press conference at Cannes, Östlund emphasized the difficulty of capturing the essence of such a unique setting on screen. His upcoming film, “The Entertainment System Is Down,” promises to be a social satire set on a long-haul flight where passengers are faced with the horror of boredom due to a malfunctioning entertainment system.
Östlund’s decision to purchase a real Boeing 747 for the production of the film adds an interesting dimension to the project. The choice to film on a studio lot over 70 days presents its own set of challenges, as Östlund himself acknowledged. The confined space of a studio for an extended period can impact the energy and motivation of the cast and crew. This self-awareness of the potential pitfalls shows Östlund’s commitment to delivering a high-quality film despite the obstacles.
Delving into the plot of “The Entertainment System Is Down,” Östlund shared a glimpse of what audiences can expect. The story revolves around a married couple, played by Kirsten Dunst and Daniel Brühl, who face a crisis during the flight. When the entertainment systems fail, the wife discovers her husband’s infidelity through his phone, leading to an emotional turmoil. The unconventional narrative promises to take viewers on an emotional roller coaster, challenging traditional storytelling in the airplane movie genre.
The film boasts a talented ensemble cast, including Keanu Reeves and Nicholas Hoult, alongside Dunst and Brühl. The mix of international actors adds to the film’s appeal, with each performer bringing a unique perspective to their roles. Brühl’s anecdote about being unofficially cast at a barbeque with Östlund contrasts with Dunst’s audition process, showcasing the diverse paths to securing a role in the film.
When asked about her experience working with Scandinavian filmmakers like Östlund and Lars Von Trier, Dunst emphasized her desire to collaborate with visionary creators. Drawing parallels between Östlund and Von Trier, Dunst tactfully navigated a potentially controversial comparison, highlighting the importance of pushing the boundaries of cinema. The mention of her past encounters with Von Trier at Cannes adds a layer of intrigue to Dunst’s involvement in “The Entertainment System Is Down.”
As Östlund prepares to debut his second English-language film at Cannes, his impressive filmography reflects a commitment to innovative storytelling. With notable works like “Force Majeure” and “The Square” under his belt, Östlund has solidified his reputation as a prolific filmmaker. His collaboration with longtime colleagues on the film further underscores his dedication to creating meaningful cinema that transcends borders.
The challenges of creating an airplane movie require a careful balance of creativity and technical execution. Ruben Östlund’s ambitious project, “The Entertainment System Is Down,” offers a fresh perspective on the genre, pushing the boundaries of storytelling and challenging the conventions of traditional filmmaking. As Östlund gears up to premiere the film at Cannes, audiences can expect an immersive cinematic experience that captures the complexities of human emotions in a confined space.
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