In a world decimated by the effects of climate change, amidst the snow of the now frozen world, there remains one source of refuge for humanity: Wilford’s train.
On board this self-sustaining train, the people are segregated into classes: wealthy in the front, poor in the back. Chris Evans, known for his role as the superhero heartthrob Captain America, now takes on the role of a poor, back-of-the-train, unlikely leader, Curtis. Faced with food scarcity, fleeting memories of what earth was like, and a desire to help the poor, Evans becomes a revolutionist, determined to reach the front of the train and restore equality to the classes. Filled with plot twists, action, and a bit of blood, Snowpiercer brings about a deeper question: is modern society really any different than the broken system portrayed in this film?
The majority of the population, residing in the back of the train, sits in squalor, resorting to desperate means to acquire food. In contrast, the minority of the people live comfortable, posh lives, ignorant to the atrocities being implemented by the man in power.
As Curtis fights his way towards the front of the train, he is lambasted by the reality of the frivolity shown by the fortunate few in the front. Car by car, the shift is made; engineering cars with water and food in the back separate the haves from the have-nots. Proceeding towards the front is the fine dining car and then the wild party cars. A new aspect of a potential lifestyle is brought to light as Curtis and a loyal few battle their way to power.
This eye-opening metaphor brings into question how the world today is run and maintained, and what our responsibility on our “train” may be. If given the seat of power, would Curtis take that opportunity to bring justice to the back by destroying the front? Beyond the revolution, what will become of the earth? Will the climate ever be bearable for mankind? Will polar bears never be seen again? What will become of humanity in this desolate, post-apocalyptic world?
Directed and written by Korean director Joon-ho Bong, renowned for his socially and politically charged films, this film effectively encompasses pressing social issues while maintaining an action-packed plot. The film was released in 2013, but did not come to American theaters until this past summer. Although this film was independently produced, it is star-studded with world-renowned actors such as Tilda Swinton (The Chronicles of Narnia), Ed Harris (Gravity and A Beautiful Mind), John Hurt (V for Vendetta), and Jamie Bell (The Fantastic Four).
While this film may not be the best choice for family movie night, as it does live up to its R rating for violence, language, and minor drug content, it is certainly worth the time investment. The action, plot, and character development go beyond simple entertainment. Thought provoking and intriguing concepts are undeniably evident in the film, and bring into question innumerable aspects of the social systems we live in today.
One reply on “Snowpiercer: A Metaphor of our Broken Society”
The man with the crazy eyes, who died and came back to life, who is he? In our society? What does he represent? Why was the daughter of the door-opener told not to look into his eyes?