A little short of perfection

Rating: 9/10 (6 January 2016)

If you knew how to tie your shoes during the 2008 recession, you need to eventually see The Big Short. Adam McKay shows a whole new set of skills in this film, while also remaining true to his forever-to-be-remembered comedic genius. Mckay is able to squeeze a load of humor into a subject that is so serious (and tragic) without coming across as offensive. He surprises me most by simultaneously being able to convey said seriousness and tragedy, as well as explain all the details of the highly confusing subject matter at a level of which someone without any finance background can understand.
Surely the general audience of this film is more of the older adult population (whether intended or not). Yet, Mckay's decision of fast paced quick-cut editing and addition of young pop-culture references opens this film up to nearly anyone (with the exception of the R rating, of course). I will also add that the (VERY) fast-paced editing helps distract the audience from its slower story.
I have a love/hate relationship with the ending of the film, in which Mckay does an amazing job exemplifying the emotion and hypocrisy of those BEHIND the collapse. However, it was the depiction of those truly affected, those mostly watching this film, that I found a bit corny and underwhelming. Then again, if he were able to capture the emotion of hundreds of millions of people into one film, he would be the God of filmmaking.
Coming from one of the millions of families that were heavily affected by the 2008 recession, The Big Short helps put to rest my anxieties and questions about what had happened to us. On the same note, it also brings upon more (healthy) anxieties of the future, reminding us all to stay aware and ready for the ever-changing economy we live under. All in all, it left me feeling simply and insignificantly human. Depending on your self-perception before going into this film, that may or may not be a good thing. Powerful, nonetheless.