Exploring the realms of science fiction in films often involves delving into scientific and technological aspects that have impacted or are likely to impact the past, present, or future. The most impactful sci-fi movies are those that incorporate scientific elements that are not only present in the real world but are also continuously evolving.
Examples of such films include Kubrick's classic, 2001: A Space Odyssey, Ex Machina, and more recently, The Creator. These movies revolve around technologies that were in the process of significant progression at the time of their making. Christopher Nolan's 2014 masterpiece, Interstellar, is a prime example of a science fiction film that embodies this theme.
Interstellar is set in the near future and follows the journey of scientists and astronauts aboard the Endurance in search of a new habitable planet for humanity. The reason for abandoning Earth in the movie is linked to a real-world aspect that was pertinent before the film's release, at the time of its release, and continues to be relevant years later.
The Dystopian Earth in Interstellar
Interstellar unfolds in the year 2067, portraying a humanity that has almost surrendered to the impending demise of the planet. Earth is gradually succumbing to decay, with crops dwindling and frequent dust storms ravaging the land. Despite the grim circumstances, a sense of tranquility pervades the population, devoid of the usual turmoil depicted in apocalyptic science fiction. People strive to maintain a semblance of normalcy, preserving aspects of society and culture such as education, religion, and even professional sports.
However, the scarcity of farmers compels a stringent selection process for higher education and non-agricultural career paths. The protagonist, Cooper, confronts this reality when informed by the principal that his son, Tom, lacks the requisite test scores for university admission.
Amidst the relentless dust storms and agricultural crises, Cooper stumbles upon a concealed NASA facility where he learns of their salvation plan. His former professor and NASA scientist, Professor Brand, elucidates that a blight is accountable for the agricultural collapse and the impending demise of Earth.
Deciphering Interstellar's Blight
The blight, simply put, is a plant disease caused by fungi or bacterial infections, typically spread through various vectors such as wind, water, insects, or animals feeding on infected plants. A poignant historical example is the Irish Potato Famine in the mid-19th century.
By 2067 in Interstellar, the blight has decimated nearly all major crops, leaving only corn to endure, albeit temporarily. Professor Brand conveys to Cooper the imminent perils facing humanity:
While a vaccine may prevent human illness, there is no feasible method to halt the blight's spread, leading to the gradual annihilation of crops and rendering the air unfit for human survival. Consequently, NASA deems the abandonment of Earth as the sole recourse, acknowledging its irreversible decay.
The portrayal of Earth's demise due to the blight draws parallels with the real-world climate crisis. Elevated global temperatures can foster the evolution and adaptation of fungi, some of which pose severe threats to life on Earth, mirroring the themes depicted in The Last of Us. Thus, Interstellar not only offers a captivating adventure but also interweaves with a scientific concept that holds profound relevance in the real world.