Eco-cinema and climate fiction: from disaster narratives to black comedy

Abstract

In recent years, there has been an increase in the publication of narrative texts dealing with the theme of climate change, which are generally referred to as 'cli-fi'. This phenomenon has also influenced film production, with a particular focus on catastrophic and apocalyptic films, as demonstrated by Roland Emmerich's The Day After Tomorrow (2004). This article aims to highlight the ethical issues associated with this narrative mode by contrasting it with drama, satire and comedy. Two case studies will be analysed: Don't Look Up (2021), directed by American filmmaker Adam McKay, and Siccità (2022), directed by Italian filmmaker Paolo Virzì, which broadens the perspective to include a comparison with the Italian film industry. The concept of irony will be the focal point of the argument.