Set in 2154 (140 years from now), the wealthy have fled an ecologically devastated Earth for the space station Elysium where they live what appears to be a an idyllic life in a pseudo-suburban setting filled with clean air, beautiful vistas, and luxurious homes stocked with miracle health machines.

Future ideas and social impacts
The film is filled with future ideas and social impact. Some of the ideas are uneven compared to today's technologies, but there are several interesting concepts at play. To that point, Blomkamp was quoted as saying "No, no, no. This isn't science fiction. This is today. This is now."

1. Widespread devastation: The planet is presented as trashy, dry and crowded. No clue where food comes from for an overcrowded planet, this feeds into common ecological tropes about our future.
2. Robot police: Robots harassing citizens with criminal backgrounds offer yet more tropes on both humanoid robots and a police corrupted by the wealthy.
3. Exoskeletons connected to bodies (spoiler): In order to regain mobility and enhance his strength, an exosuit is connected to the the brain and bones of Damon's character.
4. Med-Bay - medical bed capable of healing nearly any il (spoiler)l: Each home on Elysium contains a Med-Bay capable of curing illnesses. This technology is the central draw that requires Earth dwellers to pay a high price and put their life at risk in order to reach Elysium.
5. Technology capable of recording/stealing information in someone's brain: In the film, the ability to record and store information in someone's head provides a reason for conflict.

There are other, minor, technologies, but these round out my top five. None of them are well-presented.

Worth watching?
Sadly, Elysium didn't deliver for me. I enjoyed the movie, but expected it to be smarter with Matt Damon on board and Blomkamp directing. The main issue is that the film is an action movie in a science fiction setting and not a sci-fi movie with some action. If you're into action, it's a fun ride. If you're looking for ideas, you can pass on this film.