Netflix continues to prove itself as a movie and series powerhouse, with "Okja" adding to its repertoire of must-watch movies of this generation. Following Netflix's track record as a revolutionary producer of contemporary films and series, the streaming service deals with a controversial topic in the new film.
Capitalism and consumer preferences
One line from the movie, spoken by Nancy Mirando (Tilda Swinton), talked about how people would buy anything as long as it's cheap.
For the company behind the idea of "super pigs," deals were more important than a young girl's wish to "go home" with her beloved pet. It is a look into what goes on inside billion-dollar markets, where sacrifices have to be made to meet business goals--including ethical compromises that would anger any animal advocate. The genetically modified pigs are supposed to leave a smaller carbon footprint despite being larger in size.
A battle lost
The movie takes the viewer on a journey with Mija (Ahn Seo-hyun) as she tries to reclaim Okja from the hands of Mirando. Throughout the film, Mija meets and works with the Animal Liberation Front (ALF), who happen to record the maltreatment Okja has been subjected to during her stay in Mirando's facility.
The footage is shown to thousands of people at Mirando's event, but the movie was not able to show how the footage affected those people's decisions. It is targeted at the viewers of the film instead, many of whom have expressed their opinions on social media.
The conclusion comes as an ironic twist, taking Mija's journey full circle. In the beginning of the film, Mija's grandfather tried and failed to buy Okja from the Mirando corporation. Mija successfully does so in the end, saving Okja from a very close call. Though the ending went well for Mija and Okja, it leaves much to be desired, seeing as saving one super pig did not do anything to change the fate of the rest of them.
This left the decision in the hands of the viewers, giving them questions to ponder over after watching the film.
How people respond to a multi-million dollar corporation's attempts to manipulate their buying decisions and the use of unethical practices remain unseen.
The response to "Okja" at the Cannes Film Festival echo the responses of the general viewers. The movie has received a four-minute standing ovation, but it has also been booed at the acclaimed film festival. Reports say the screening experienced technical difficulties, contributing to the negative reception.
The movie also stars Lily Collins, Jake Gyllenhaal, and Steven Yeun. It is directed by Bong Joon-ho.