"Downsizing"

2017 * R * 2h 15m  Here's a perfect example of a good film that flew totally under the radar. With stars like Matt Damon and Kristen Wiig, you'd think it would have gotten more publicity. Before I get into my review, I should warn you that the trailer is a bit misleading. It's billed as a comedy, and the trailer sure makes it seem like one. But, while it has a few amusing bits, it's not a comedy at all. 

In the near future, a scientist discovers a way to shrink humans down to five inches tall. This is sold as a way to solve many of the worlds problems. If the entire population is shrunk down, they'll consume less natural resources and reduce global warming. So Paul Safranek (Damon) and his wife Audrey (Wiig) decide to undergo the transformation. After Paul has been shrunk, he discovers his wife has chickened out and he has to live in the small persons community by himself. 

While there, he meets some interesting characters. One is his neighbor Dusan (Christoph Walz), a Bosnian entrepreneur and playboy. He also encounters his cleaning woman Ngoc Lan Tran, played by Hong Chau ("The Menu" and "The Whale"). He helps her with her physical problems and in her quest to feed her needy neighbors. Eventually he falls for her. I thought it was an interesting story and the film was quite engaging. Not your typical Hollywood fare, and something quite a bit different for a Matt Damon movie. 

3 1/2 out of 5 stars

Currently streaming for free with your library card on Kanopy.com.  And on Paramount+ and to rent on Prime Video.