Released exclusively in the United Kingdom in 2009, this intriguing thriller film writer,
directed, and produced by Stuart Hazeldine may not very widely known, but it does pack
a punch.
Staged entirely within a unique, and window-less room, this 101-minute film unfolds in real-time,
and presents the story of an utterly bizarre, and intense job interview process.
Set in the not-too distant future, eight candidates from varying backgrounds must cooperate to
figure out the complex, and confusing exam before them -- each is given only a pencil,
and a blank piece of paper - and a very strict set of rules.
One by one, the candidates, known only by their self-assigned nicknames like "black",
"white", "blonde", or "dark" attempt to interact with their environment to discover the question
they're supposed to answer, and risk getting
disqualified in the process.
As the field dwindles, the stakes increase, and the intensity is continuously ratcheted
up a level - culminating in a fast-paced, and exciting final act, made all the more
impressive by the story's limited setting.
The thought-process behind each of the characters is fascinating and incredibly intriguing.
The puzzling plot twists and turns it's way quickly through each phase of the story, which
rewards it's most observant and quick-thinking viewers with excellent pay-offs and surprises.
Although few of them are well-known Stateside, the 10-person cast is populated with talented
and attractive British actors who do a terrific job carrying this interesting, and sometimes
violent movie.
Moving along at a contemporary pace with some superb editing, and quick uses of flashback
throughout, "Exam" is also one that functions just as well on repeat viewing -- as additional
details, to minute to be picked up the first time, fit nicely into the fabric of the film's
mysterious narrative.
A few moments of unrealistic character motivation, and some sizable plot-holes late in the film
unfortunately stain what is otherwise a perfectly written study of human psychology in some
of the most stressful and demanding situations.
This is a wonderfully entertaining and original film that thankfully is beginning to reach
new viewers, thanks to a long-stay on Netflix's Instant Watch collection.
"Exam" is a "Thrilling mind-bender that excites".
Now that you've heard my review, let's check out the YouTube comments to read some of yours.
To score 2009's "Exam", here's the Rate-o-Matic... and eight and an eight.
You applauded this film's originality and environment, but weren't as convinced by the
less-than-stellar execution, scoring it a Great.
I agreed - this was a very enjoyable film that had me guessing the entire time, but
ultimately, it failed to really impress in a few other areas...
I thought it was great as well.