What is director Ruben Östlund's strategy for his new film 'The Entertainment System Is Down'?

Ruben Östlund intentionally revealed crucial plot points, including the ending, to spark audience curiosity about the filmmaking process.

How was the airplane set for 'The Entertainment System Is Down' created?

The airplane set for the film was designed using VR technology, allowing for virtual collaboration among the director, cinematographer, and set designer.

Why does Ruben Östlund consider test screenings important for his films?

Test screenings are vital for Östlund to refine sensitive elements within his films and to gauge the collective energy and impact on the audience.

Home / Arts and Entertainment / Director Reveals 'Sadness' Film's Shocking Ending Early

Director Reveals 'Sadness' Film's Shocking Ending Early

29 Jan

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Summary

Director intentionally revealed film's ending to pique audience curiosity.
The upcoming film is set on an airplane and utilizes VR for design.
Test screenings are crucial for the director to refine sensitive elements.

Director Reveals 'Sadness' Film's Shocking Ending Early

Director Ruben Östlund, acclaimed for "Triangle of Sadness," discussed his anticipated film "The Entertainment System Is Down," potentially premiering at Cannes in 2026 or 2027. Östlund revealed a deliberate strategy of sharing significant plot details, including the ending, at the Göteborg Film Festival. He believes this approach sparks audience curiosity about the creative process rather than plot resolution.

The film's production involved overcoming the challenges of shooting on an airplane, utilizing VR technology for set design. This allowed the director, cinematographer, and set designer to collaborate virtually. Östlund noted that the film explores characters facing difficult dilemmas, such as infidelity, within the confined and inescapable airplane setting.

Östlund aims to make audiences think by confronting them with uncomfortable truths and examining human herd mentality and social sensitivity. He highlighted the importance of test screenings, citing a negative experience with his film "Play." These screenings are essential for refining the movie's sensitive elements and ensuring its collective impact on viewers, a practice he also employed for "Force Majeure" and "The Square."