Are the Ultra-Rich Really Building Doomsday Bunkers? | VICE Marathon
Channel: VICE Forever
Duration: 46:37
The Big Picture
The glitzy town of Queenstown in New Zealand is more than just a millionaire’s playground - it might be an apocalypse-proof bunker haven as illustrated by surprising elite paranoia and piecemeal evidence. While no conclusive numbers are confirmed, the hints and anecdotes remind viewers that for some, even the ultra-wealthy, buying peace of mind means prepping for the unthinkable.
Chapter Breakdown
- Act I (Setup): The video kicks off with our intrepid journalist, Buzz McDonald, setting the stage in his childhood home of New Zealand, famous for its post-apocalyptic literature and, apparently, as a secret billionaire hideaway. We dive into whispers of Silicon Valley elites snapping up underground bunkers here as doomsday insurance.
- Act II (Development/Twist): We meet the elusive 'Rising S' folks from Texas, the bunker-building virtuosos, hinting at a booming business in secrecy-driven survivalism. Our hero Buzz traipses through Queenstown, hobnobbing with Richie Rich types and getting a taste of their plans to outlast civilization’s potential demise.
- Act III (Resolution/Conclusion): As the saga draws to a close, Buzz experiences life with 'Chauvarianz,' survivalists who embrace self-reliance with zeal. In a blend of skepticism and enlightenment, the video leaves us pondering: are these bunkers a hedge against humanity’s bad decisions or just fancy toys for the paranoid elite?
Highlights
- The breathtaking revelation that luxury bunkers are being shipped secretly with only GPS coordinates for navigation.
- The image of Buzz McDonald nostalgically reminiscing about post-apocalyptic childhood obsessions turned somewhat real.
- The concept that New Zealand passports could be like Netflix subscriptions for the wealthy - pay yearly to keep them active.
- The audacity of being able to keep a ski resort open just for a billionaire client’s whims.
Quote of the Moment
When Peter Thiel buys a bunker, you have to ask: what does he know that we don’t?
Controversial Takes
- The idea that wealthy individuals should buy citizenship in countries like New Zealand.
- Using financial clout to bend societal privileges to secure survival extras, like private ski resort access.
- Survivalism's blend of paranoia versus practical self-sufficiency preached by prepper groups.
Is It Clickbait?
Clickbait verdict: Clickbait — Clickbait
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