Former President Barack Obama, venturing into the world of film production post-presidency, is stirring up conversations with his latest Netflix release, "Leave the World Behind." Co-produced with his wife, Michelle Obama, through their company Higher Ground Productions, the film represents a foray into fictional storytelling for the Obamas, a shift from their initial documentary endeavor, "American Factory."
"Leave the World Behind," directed by Sam Esmail and based on Rumaan Alam's novel, explores the dynamics of two families amidst a nationwide blackout. The movie delves into themes of trust and survival, reflecting on societal tensions. Obama's involvement as a consultant and producer was not just titular; according to Vanity Fair, he provided substantial input on the script, aiming to ground the narrative in realism. Esmail noted that Obama's feedback was rooted in his observations of human nature, contributing to the film's authenticity.
However, the film has generated controversy, particularly surrounding a scene where a Black character expresses caution against trusting white people in a crisis. This particular moment has sparked backlash on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), where users accused the film of promoting divisiveness. Critics, including the account Libs of TikTok, accused the film of "demonizing white people," while others like Matt Wallace labeled the scene as "racist."
In contrast, the film also received praise for its provocative content, with sports journalist Jemele Hill commending the Obamas for their executive production role. Supporters argue that the film mirrors current societal issues, with user MissMa'am highlighting its relevance in addressing trust dynamics in times of turmoil.
"Leave the World Behind" marks a significant step in the Obamas' journey with Netflix, where their deal encompasses a range of projects including films and television series. The film's release comes at a time when Barack Obama's post-presidential endeavors have been closely watched, from his bestselling memoir to his involvement in various media projects.
The film's portrayal of a cyberattack-induced crisis and its impact on interpersonal trust mirrors contemporary concerns about technology and societal fractures. With Obama's input, the film aims to be a reflection, if not a warning, about the state of society and the potential for disaster. Esmail, in his discussions with Obama, aimed to strike a balance between fictional dramatization and plausible reality, a task that the former president helped navigate with his unique insights.
As debates swirl around the film's thematic choices, "Leave the World Behind" stands as a notable example of how cinematic storytelling can intersect with political discourse, particularly when helmed by figures like the Obamas who occupy a significant space in the public consciousness.
