By Leah Katz ’21
On September 12, HBO debuted its first pandemic presentation. Adapted, filmed, and edited during the height of strict COVID-19 self-isolation protocol, Coastal Elites is one of the first of its kind. The presentation, originally intended for the stage, is a series of monologues from characters who fit the term of “coastal elites.” Clocking in at 90 minutes, it isn’t classified as a movie, but rather a “special presentation.” This “elite” cast is composed of Bette Midler, Dan Levy, Issa Rae, Sarah Paulson, and Kaitlyn Dever. Each performs their own monologue that focuses on political conflict to some degree, and the presentation as a whole is proudly left-wing and anti-Trump. The performances are emotional, raw, and enjoyable. Each character is telling their story to an invisible person behind the camera, including a police officer in an interrogation room, a therapist in a Zoom call, or just a video chat with a friend. After looking past the uncomfortable one-sided conversations, the production as a whole can be considered a feat in filmmaking and production during an unprecedented pandemic. However, there are major issues that lie within the writing.
While adapting the original stage play to a screenplay, writer Paul Rudnick was able to revise some monologues to include current events, such as the pandemic and renewed movement for racial justice. While it may appear to be a great opportunity (who wouldn’t want to make their writing more relevant?), in reality this minor inclusion only undermines the significance of these issues. Ultimately, many of the stories told by these characters do not focus on these current events. By including brief mentions of them, the serious conflicts facing Americans today come across as a secondary thought, and of less importance. To forcefully tie in elements of our current world without fully acknowledging their significance creates a mood of naivety and tone-deafness. For this very reason, the most honest and meaningful monologue is performed by Kaitlyn Dever, who plays a medical student working on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic. This character’s story fully focuses on ongoing problems, and gives it the deserved attention and respect.
While all actors give heartfelt and authentic performances, the presentation as a whole lacks a major theme or purpose. Numerous important issues and conflicts are mentioned, but the presentation never says anything original about them. There is no advice or inspiration for change. The problem is that this is intentional: these characters aren’t supposed to have the answers. They’re supposed to be struggling and confused like the audience, but in the midst of a pandemic, we’re tired of confusion. We live through it everyday and are desperate for the inspiration that Coastal Elites lacks. Additionally, these characters contribute to the negative connotation of the term “coastal elites.” They may be relatable to select viewers, but the oblivious ignorance of current events creates a feeling of true elitism and privilege. One can’t help but think this presentation might just soothe the egos of those feeling somewhat out of touch with the average citizen.
There is some redemption for this special presentation. While watching only one person speak for an average 20 minutes can be uncomfortable and boring at times, it forces the audience to do nothing but listen. If anything, there is an important message about listening and at least attempting to hear differing opinions. All characters are driven by curiosity, which is something we all can strive for.
Coastal Elites is best seen through an educational lens, instead of purely entertainment. It’s a mildly intriguing investigation of people, their actions and motivations, and human nature in general. It doesn’t present any new ideas for the audience to respond to, but instead leaves the audience feeling hollow and somewhat confused about the overall purpose of the presentation. It makes you search for a purpose and insert your own themes and ideas solely because it doesn’t present any of its own. Unfortunately, Coastal Elites can be coined as a shallow jumping-off point at best to initiate mindful conversations about listening to others and analyzing human motives.
