Emotions and Risk Perception in "Don't Look Up"

By Emiliano Rodriguez Nuesch and María Morena Vicente

In 2022 the controversial movie ‘Don’t Look Up’ was launched, serving as a satirical portrayal of society's response -or lack thereof-  to urgent crises, particularly climate change. 

The film, presented by the phrase: “based on real events that haven't happened… yet”, uses the allegory of an impending comet collision to mirror the indifference of government, political figures, celebrities, and media towards the climate crisis. 

The story follows astronomers Dr. Randall Mindy and Kate Dibiasky, who discover a massive asteroid hurtling towards Earth. Their journey to warn the world reveals how fear, denial, frustration, hope, and other emotions influence the way people perceive and respond to risk. How do these emotions shape the way different actors respond to risk?

Fear: The Initial Jolt 

Dr. Mindy and Kate's initial reaction is pure fear. Upon realizing the catastrophic potential of the asteroid, they are driven by a sense of urgency to inform the authorities. Fear propels them to act quickly and decisively, highlighting how this emotion can be a powerful motivator in crisis situations. However, their fear contrasts sharply with the initial skepticism and denial they encounter from President Janie Orlean and her team.

Denial: The Dangerous Avoidance 

The president and her advisors display a mix of skepticism and denial, driven by political calculations and personal interests. They downplay the risk, choosing to avoid the uncomfortable truth. This denial delays critical actions, demonstrating how dangerous it can be when leaders prioritize their agendas over scientific evidence. As the film progresses, Kate's frustration and anger grow, especially as she faces public indifference and media mockery.

Frustration and Anger

Raising the Alarm Kate's anger and emotional outbursts, while highlighting the seriousness of the threat, also alienate potential allies. Her frustration is palpable and relatable, showcasing how anger can both raise awareness and create barriers. 

Meanwhile, Dr. Mindy experiences deep anxiety and despair as the situation worsens and solutions seem out of reach. These emotions can paralyze decision-making and foster a sense of helplessness.

Anxiety and Despair

The Paralyzing Effect Despite the overwhelming odds, some characters maintain hope and determination. Grassroots activists and dedicated scientists continue to fight for solutions, driven by the belief that their efforts can make a difference. Their hope inspires collective action and demonstrates the power of positive emotions in rallying people together for a common cause.

Hope, Determination, and Acceptance

Final Reflections As the asteroid impact becomes inevitable, the characters' emotions shift towards acceptance. This final stage brings a mix of reconciliation and meaningful last actions. Acceptance, though often seen as surrender, can also lead to profound personal connections and a focus on what truly matters.

"Don't Look Up" reminds us that our emotional responses play a crucial role in how we perceive and react to risks, and recognizing these emotions can help us better navigate real-world crises.