If you came of age in the 1990s, the Y2K scare is likely etched in your memory. The fear that the transition from 1999 to 2000 could cause widespread chaos due to technology limitations was a real concern. However, in the new sci-fi comedy Y2K, co-writer and director Kyle Mooney takes a hilarious twist on the Y2K panic, imagining a scenario where computers decide to take matters into their own hands and wreak havoc. With a talented young cast including Rachel Zegler, Jaeden Martell, and Julian Dennison, the film follows a group of teenagers partying on New Year’s Eve 1999 when things go awry.
In a recent interview with io9, Mooney discussed the process of bringing the 1990s era to life for actors who weren’t even born during that time. He shared how playlists and movie lists were provided to help the actors immerse themselves in the culture of the era. Mooney also revealed some interesting behind-the-scenes details, such as the inspiration behind the custom action figures and the decision to include references to shows like That ’70s Show.
The film starts off as a typical teen comedy before taking a sharp turn into sci-fi horror territory. Mooney explained that the balance between the two genres was always a key aspect of the film’s concept, with a focus on making the transitions feel as grounded and real as possible. The inclusion of the video store as a main location in the film was a nod to Mooney’s own experiences, having worked in a video store in the late ’90s.
Overall, Y2K offers a nostalgic and humorous take on the Y2K panic, blending elements of teen comedy with sci-fi horror. With Mooney’s directorial debut receiving positive reviews, the film is now in theaters, offering a unique and entertaining look back at a time when the world was on the brink of a new millennium.