NEW YORK — The upcoming film “Rumours” promises to be one of the most peculiar cinematic experiences of the year.
Initially, it sets out as a sharp political satire aimed at the G7 world leaders, but it quickly veers into a bizarre narrative that includes eerie, slow-moving zombies, a colossal brain discovered in a forest with unknown origins, and an AI chatbot with dubious intentions. The film transforms from thought-provoking commentary to outright absurdity, shifting the focus from criticism of political figures to making them the punchline.
Cate Blanchett, one of the stars and an executive producer of the film, shared insights on its overarching theme, stating, “Given the current climate crises and political turbulence, many are feeling intense anxiety and fear. It feels as if we are on the brink of a world conflict, while some powers appear to enjoy the chaos.” Blanchett portrays Hilda Orlmann, a fictional German chancellor who prioritizes appearances over decisive action during the G7 summit.
Blanchett believes that viewers may approach the film seeking some form of release. “Since the movie oscillates between being ridiculous and horrifying, audiences are likely to laugh at the bizarre reality we find ourselves in. It allows for a cathartic moment,” she commented.
The film’s three directors—Guy Maddin and siblings Evan and Galen Johnson—intended for their work to convey the “generic wash of political disrespect” without coming across as a condescending lecture. Evan Johnson, who co-directed and penned the script, articulated that he prefers films that invite mystery and introspection rather than those that preach to the audience.
The film takes a turn towards the absurd when, after the initial act where G7 leaders convene to address an unspecified crisis, they find themselves besieged by “bog people”—preserved corpses from ancient times. The ensuing chaos provides a mixture of humor and farce.
Nikki Amuka-Bird, who plays the fictional British Prime Minister Cardosa Dewindt, explained that the script frequently had her questioning, “What’s going on?” However, it was precisely this unconventional plot—a fusion of genres—that enticed her to join the project. “The directors’ fearless blending of genres eliminates any trepidation, as they maintain a playful tone throughout,” she added.
The film is further bolstered by a talented ensemble cast, including Roy Dupuis as an exaggerated Canadian Prime Minister, Charles Dance as an American President with an inexplicable British accent, Denis Ménochet portraying a paranoid French leader, and Alicia Vikander as an energetic European Commission leader.
Blanchett revealed that the movie’s title draws inspiration from the iconic Fleetwood Mac album, which was famously created during a tumultuous period in the band’s history. She noted, “While it appears to be a story about the G7, it also resembles a daytime soap opera filled with romance, quarrels, and drama.”
She concluded, “It offers a unique lens to assess the chaos we face and the leadership that has guided us to this point.” The film is poised to provide a riveting blend of satire and surrealism, ensuring that audiences experience both laughter and reflection.