Greatland

My main struggle with Greatland is intent versus execution. The filmmaker wrote an intriguing story, but the narrative is incredibly dense. Once I figured out what the plot was really about, I was hooked to the end, but getting there took a lot of work and mental gymnastics. The first hurdle is the first act, as it can be potentially misinterpreted as right-wing propaganda. The term diversity has been the center of heated debates and re-defined in a way that some might argue has nothing to do with actual diversity. The felinist party of Greatland is also full of rainbows and unicorns, which on the surface can also be seen as problematic.

Dana Ziyasheva finds the right balance when our hero arrives on Repentance Island, its indictment on capitalism and totalitarianism. Repentance Island is where the rich go to live out the rest of their lives in luxury and sophisticated hedonism. It’s probably the most “evil” part of Greatland. The problem you may face is you’re so pissed off at the first act that you’ll miss the second and inevitably the entire point.

“I admire the world of Greatland…”

What I appreciate about the film is also its most significant criticism. I admire the world of Greatland, but at the same time, it is almost too big. There are so many factions and roles in this society that it’s hard to follow, remember, or figure out. I admire the underlying message, but at the same time, it was easy to think that this was a one-sided political hit piece through most of it. Considerably helping Greatland along are powerhouse indie actors Eric Roberts and Bill Oberst, Jr.

Managing expectations is the key to watching Greatland. As a critic, it’s my professional duty to view a film from beginning to end. I see many one-sided political films, and usually, I can tell if it’s a hit piece versus a politically balanced one. This felt like a hit piece until I got to the halfway point and realized its message was much broader. I wish I understood the breadth of the story from the start, so I wouldn’t have to say, stick with it, and you’ll see where it’s going. That said, I do like a film that makes me think and offers some challenge.