‘Exam’: A Deep Dive Into a Forgotten Psychological Thriller
‘Exam’, Stuart Hazeldine’s directorial debut from 2009, stands out as a prime example of a bottle movie that masterfully captivates its audience through its intricate development and gripping narrative. Set entirely within the confines of a windowless room, ‘Exam’ delivers a psychological thriller that is both a cerebral challenge and a tension-filled experience, akin to the mind-bending puzzle of Cube. The premise is deceptively simple: eight finalists competing for a coveted pharmaceutical job are given a blank sheet of paper and tasked with answering an unseen question within eighty minutes.
What unfolds is a riveting exploration of human behaviour under pressure. As the candidates grapple with the mysterious absence of a question, tensions escalate, alliances form and fracture, and hidden agendas emerge. Hazeldine’s film cleverly eschews elaborate sets and expansive landscapes in favour of a minimalist approach that amplifies the psychological drama. The room itself becomes a character, suffocatingly intimate and claustrophobic, intensifying the characters’ anxieties and the audience’s immersion in their plight.
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Exam’s strength lies not only in its suspenseful plot but also in its richly developed characters portrayed by a diverse ensemble cast including Gemma Chan, Adar Beck, Luke Mably, Pollyanna McIntosh, Jimi Mistry, Colin Salmon, Chukwudi Iwuji, John Lloyd Fillingham, and Chris Carey. Each character brings unique motivations and vulnerabilities to the forefront, adding layers of complexity to the narrative. As the candidates navigate the escalating pressure and moral dilemmas, ‘Exam’ delves into themes of ambition, manipulation, and the lengths individuals will go to achieve their goals.
Hazeldine’s film is a testament to the power of a confined setting to amplify human drama. Inspired by classics like Sidney Lumet’s ‘12 Angry Men’ and ‘Fail Safe’, Hazeldine crafts a gripping narrative that hinges on intense dialogue and psychological suspense.
‘Exam’ challenges its characters and viewers alike to confront their assumptions and expectations, culminating in a climactic plot twist that redefines the film’s premise and forces a reconsideration of everything that has transpired.
Ultimately, ‘Exam’ transcends its modest origins to deliver a thought-provoking exploration of human nature and ambition. It stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of psychological thrillers that delve deep into the complexities of the human psyche, offering audiences a thrilling and intellectually stimulating cinematic experience.
–Farheen Ali
