The Big Picture: Episode Summary - "The 25 Best Movies of the Century: No. 22 - ‘Children of Men’"

Date Released: April 21, 2025
Host: Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins
Podcast: The Big Picture by The Ringer

Introduction

In this special episode of The Big Picture, hosts Sean Fennessey and Amanda Dobbins delve into their 25 Best Movies of the Century list, focusing specifically on the 22nd entry: Alfonso Cuarón's seminal film, "Children of Men". This episode offers an in-depth exploration of why "Children of Men" merits its place on the list, examining its profound themes, exceptional filmmaking, and enduring relevance.

Re-evaluating "Children of Men"

Sean begins the conversation by expressing initial hesitations about featuring "Children of Men" on their list. Reflecting on his own doubts, he admits:

Sean Fennessey [01:29]: "children of Men, I don't know. Should we make a swap? I'm not sure if I want to do this."

Amanda reassures him, highlighting their mutual appreciation for the film's emotional depth and technical prowess:

Amanda Davis [03:02]: "I threw out some other selections...and in that time, you and I both rewatched the film...this might actually be top 10."

Overview of "Children of Men"

"Children of Men," directed by Alfonso Cuarón and based on P.D. James's novel, is set in a bleak 2027 where humanity faces extinction due to global infertility. The film stars Clive Owen as Theo, Julianne Moore as Julian, and features performances by Chiwetel Ejiofor, Michael Caine, and others. The narrative follows Theo's journey to protect a miraculous pregnant woman, symbolizing hope for the future.

Filmmaking Excellence

A significant portion of the discussion centers on Cuarón's masterful direction and Emmanuel Lubezki's cinematography. Sean lauds their collaboration:

Sean Fennessey [06:34]: "Cuarón might be the world's greatest living filmmaker who has not made a movie in six, seven years."

Amanda echoes this sentiment, emphasizing the film's technical marvels:

Amanda Davis [09:01]: "There is a stunning amount of...camera work, athletic filmmaking...the whole movie is that level of astonishing filmmaking and craft."

The hosts highlight the film's renowned single-shot sequences, such as the intense car attack and the climactic battle scene, which immerse viewers in the relentless turmoil of the dystopian world.

Themes and Societal Commentary

"Children of Men" is praised for its prescient themes that resonate with contemporary societal issues. Sean draws parallels between the film's depiction of governmental overreach and real-world events:

Sean Fennessey [21:12]: "We're engaged in international conflict in the United States of America...this reality was in touching distance."

Amanda points out the film's chilling reflection of modern crises, including immigration issues and authoritarian responses:

Amanda Davis [20:57]: "There are literal details of this world that are actually happening right now...it is really chilling in the way it portrays some of these things."

Character Analysis and Performances

Clive Owen's portrayal of Theo is lauded for its depth and physicality. The hosts discuss his transformation from a disillusioned man to a pivotal agent of change. Julianne Moore's Julian provides a compelling counterbalance with her fervent commitment to saving humanity.

Chiwetel Ejiofor's character, Luke, is examined for his representation of militant progressivism:

Sean Fennessey [13:01]: "There are two sides to progress...the humanist approach to this kind of thing."

Amanda highlights Ejiofor's impactful moments, particularly the birth scene, which encapsulates the film's essence of hope amidst despair:

Amanda Davis [14:12]: "Every single person in this movie responds to the sight of this baby...it is really beautiful."

Music and Soundtrack

John Tavener's original score complements the film's somber tone, while strategic "needle drops" enrich the narrative. Notably, the inclusion of Radiohead's "Life in a Glass House" underscores the film's themes of loss and resilience:

Sean Fennessey [25:38]: "There are a handful of really clever needle drops mixed in with this sort of choral symphonic score...the movie is a story about people who are on the precipice of disaster trying to find a reason to keep going."

Reception and Awards

Upon its release in 2006, "Children of Men" garnered critical acclaim but faced unexpected snubbing at the Oscars. Despite three nominations for Best Adapted Screenplay, Best Cinematography, and Best Film Editing, it did not secure any wins. Sean expresses disappointment over the lack of recognition:

Sean Fennessey [30:24]: "This movie is a movie about images and feeling...a real old school Oscar travesty that this movie was not recognized in its time."

Amanda speculates on potential reasons, such as its late December release, which may have affected its visibility amidst other major contenders like "The Departed" and "Babel":

Amanda Davis [30:56]: "Maybe it was too late and people were just too bummed out by it."

Legacy and Continued Relevance

The hosts emphasize the film's enduring relevance, drawing connections to contemporary media like "The Handmaid's Tale" and discussing its influence on post-apocalyptic storytelling. Sean compares it to shows and films that explore societal decay and authoritarianism, underscoring its timeless message.

Closing Thoughts

In wrapping up, Sean and Amanda reflect on the emotional impact of "Children of Men" and its rightful place on their list. They express excitement about discussing such a profound film and anticipate future episodes that will explore a variety of cinematic experiences.

Amanda Davis [41:32]: "I was psyched. I was like driving into work today and I can't wait to talk about this movie."

Sean Fennessey [42:35]: "I'm eager for Cuarón to come back to films. I think, especially at a time like this, a person who knows how to make movies that are meant to be seen in theaters."

They conclude with gratitude towards their producer and a teaser for upcoming episodes, maintaining the engaging and thoughtful tone that characterizes The Big Picture.

Notable Quotes:

• Sean Fennessey [03:02]: "That is what I said...this might actually be top 10."
• Amanda Davis [09:01]: "The whole movie is that level of astonishing filmmaking and craft."
• Sean Fennessey [21:12]: "This reality was in touching distance."
• Amanda Davis [20:57]: "It is really chilling in the way it portrays some of these things."
• Amanda Davis [14:12]: "It is really beautiful."
• Sean Fennessey [30:24]: "A real old school Oscar travesty."

Conclusion

This episode of The Big Picture offers a comprehensive and passionate examination of "Children of Men," celebrating its artistic achievements and societal insights. For cinephiles and casual listeners alike, Sean and Amanda provide a compelling argument for the film's significance in modern cinema.