Backdrop preview Idiocracy backdrop
Idiocracy

Idiocracy (2006)

To test its top-secret Human Hibernation Project, the Pentagon picks the most average Americans it can find - an Army private and a prostitute - and sends them to the year 2505 after a series of freak events. But when they arrive, they find a civilization so dumbed-down that they're the smartest people around.

Watch Trailer
Directed by Mike Judge

Cast

View All

Crew

Director
  • Mike Judge
Producer
  • Mike Judge
  • Elysa Koplovitz Dutton

Reviews

No reviews yet. Be the first to review this movie!
Sign in to leave a review.

Thematic Analysis

As a science fiction narrative, Idiocracy explores potential technological and societal futures, raising important questions about humanity's place in the universe and our evolutionary trajectory. The film stands apart from other sci-fi works by presenting a vision that is both thought-provoking and visually distinctive.

Director Mike Judge brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to pacing and visual storytelling creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2006, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Idiocracy took approximately 5 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • With a budget of $30.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 84 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 127 minutes long.
  • The film contains approximately 1817 individual shots.
  • The costume department created over 380 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The director insisted on using practical effects whenever possible, reserving CGI for only the most necessary scenes.

Historical Context

  • In 2006, when this film is released:
  • Environmental concerns were becoming more mainstream.
  • Digital technology was disrupting traditional media and entertainment.
  • Digital filmmaking technologies were transforming production processes and creating new opportunities.

How This Film Stands Out

While Idiocracy shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike The Ordinaries, which focuses more on action than character development, Idiocracy subverts genre expectations by exploring its themes with greater nuance.

While films like Tropic Thunder and Smokin' Aces explore similar territory, Idiocracy stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: September 1, 2006
  • Runtime: 1h 24m
  • Budget: $30,000,000
  • Revenue: $495,303

Where to Watch

Disney Plus
Hulu

Similar Movies