Digger

Director: Alejandro G. Iñárritu

Digger Rockwell (Tom Cruise), an oil tycoon drilling for oil in the Arctic, is warned by chief scientist Dr. Ganesh (Riz Ahmed) that the drilling is likely to cause a global catastrophe. But the warning comes too late, as Digger’s drilling causes a huge iceberg to break free and head towards Europe. Hauled up in front of the President (John Goodman), Digger is challenged to fix the mess he’s made and avoid ecological disaster. All does not go well, and from Digger himself to an ailing President, his US hierarchy and European courts, it leads humanity down a road from which they may never return.

Digger has had mixed reviews, which is no surprise. While there are things to like, I’m sure others will find it grating.

It’s a story with a clear message about our continued abuse of our planet by those in power, as well as our refusal to deal with it. But it also feels a bit of a mess, and never fully grabs you. It feels like a mix of Wes Anderson and Yorgos Lanthimos, but never quite takes the best bits of either.

It’s not a film I disliked — while it has flaws, there are enjoyable parts, especially in its second half: from the moment Digger tackles a European court of literal grey suits, the film finds a clearer narrative and a more believable Digger.

Cruise in the lead role is solid and believable enough, but it’s not prime Cruise, as he doesn’t balance the comedic elements with the depth his character needs, especially as the film reveals its twist. It’s Riz Ahmed who steals the show, alongside John Goodman’s bumbling, blustering President (remind you of anyone?). A Jesse Plemons cameo is always welcome, and Michael Stuhlbarg and Sophie Wilde also add strong support, although Sandra Hüller is poorly used.

The film is well shot and moves between its two worlds smoothly and smartly, although whether both add value is less clear.

It’s a film that has flaws. Its message is important, but it’s not quite as clever, funny or absorbing as it needs to be, though it’s better than its harshest critics may suggest.