“Leave the World Behind” is a movie displaying how life would be if the internet were suddenly taken from us, with no explanation. This movie provokes those who are addicted to everything digital. It leaves the audience questioning whether they can live without it.
Based on the book by Rumaan Alam, this movie dives into human connections when faced with societal disconnect. It’s set in an apocalyptic scenario, giving the perspectives of 2 families. Due to the internet being inaccessible, they are forced to seek refuge with each other to make sense of what is happening. The main point shown throughout the movie is how difficult it is for this family to navigate life without the use of technology. It does an excellent job of portraying how we adapt to our surroundings, with little to no information.
Viewers like Wynita Tipler found themselves reflecting on their technology usage and how they can spend that time building practical skills. She said, “I would be upset if I ended up in a situation like that. I don’t know what I would do besides depending on my family in deciding our next steps.” She uses technology a lot, so she describes the loss of it being horrific. If it did happen today, she said she would be upset about not being able to play the PS5 game, Spiderman 2.
This movie has led its audience to wonder if this could happen in the real world. Since it came out, articles have been published that mysteriously connect to the movie. Having influence from famous people such as the Obamas, is it wrong to believe this could be a warning for our future?
An article published by The Guardian states the recommendations from the Prime Minister to “stock up on battery-powered radios and torches, as well as candles and first aid kits in order to prepare for power cuts….”
Cyberattacks have also affected the United States in the same month. Bloomberg Television has reported on how multiple cyberattacks have been happening across the country, resulting in the shutdown of water treatment plants and hospitals.
“We’ve advanced so far when it comes to technology, however it comes with a cost to our basic skills needed to survive. If something like this were to happen in real life, the dependency on technology will be our biggest weakness.” – Alicia Banks, a viewer of Leave The World Behind