THE ASSESSMENT gives us a dystopian, futuristic plot with nods to retro sci-fi film making. In the 1970s and 1980s it was not farfetched to think we would be living in such a society as this. Watching now we can even easier buy into the concept of automation and a bleak, soulless culture. There is much in this film to like. A small cast put into an awkward, stressful, and intriguing situation. It moves like a stage play as each character dances around one another from scene to scene.
Magnolia Home Entertainment sci-fi thriller The Assessment will be arriving on Blu-Ray, DVD and OnDemand on June 17
Synopsis: In the near future where parenthood is strictly controlled, a couple’s seven-day assessment for the right to have a child unravels into a psychological nightmare. | 1h 54m | Rated R for sexual content, language, suicide, sexual assault and brief nudity.
This cast is so stacked, with actors who know how to bring about varying emotions. The performances are subtle and organic. Though science fiction the story line does play on relevant fears, pains, and sorrow. These three stars are able to bring the nuances of each one perfectly. Mia (Elizabeth Olsen) and Aaryan (Himesh Patel) are a married couple, both intellectuals and highly valued in their fields of work. They are quick to say that with all their successes the one thing missing is a child. They want to be parents. That right has been taken over by the government though and in order to have a child they must pass a stricked and strenuous 7-day assessment. Enter Virginia (Alicia Vikander). The accessor.
Virginia will live with the couple for seven days and closely evaluate every moment of their lives. Along with question and answer sessions there are more awkward and violating moments as well. Virginia watches them do everything. Everything. Plus since this is about parenthood there are moments when Virginia takes on the role as small child; acting out scenarios to see how the couple responds. To gauge their emotions and tolerance. If anything, she is committed to the role.
Mia and Aaryan try very hard to do everything that is asked of them. Virginia is good too at pitting them against each other. She will act out against Mia and placate Aaryan. She tries to push every button possible to get them to snap. With so much riding on this assessment it increases the stress level and taxes their marriage; even in that short seven days.
The look and feel of the film is fantastic. You get the idea that there it is a large domed biosphere sort of world. There are few amenities but it is clean and safe. Aaryan is a coder and virtual designer while Mia works more as a botanist. The clothing and housing is very much in the vain of 70’s Star Wars and you would not be surprised if Uncle Owen and Aunt Beru lived a few sand dunes over. If anything this surroundings gives off a “the future sucks” vibe.
When you have a limited cast the dialogue and story line is vital. These both shine here. At times it is very subtle. But so is life. There are no long drawn out allegories. Any lengthy conversations are heartfelt and come from a place of longing. It is this that captivates the audience and draws you in. That and the expectation of what Virginia will do next.
The film is rated R for content and there are some moments that are very adult in nature. Even the premise is heavy. If you are wanting fast edits, quick moving scenes, or intense action this is not your film. Those who love to watch fantastic performances with an intriguing story, this will be in your frame of reference. Either way, let’s not throw the baby out with the bathwater. Give it view regardless of your go-to genre.
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