Review of Compliance (2012) by Jeffrey M — 24 Feb 2013

Timely, unsettling, and riveting, Compliance is a memorable, and undeniably disturbing thriller. The premise, based on actual events, revolves around a prank call, and the seemingly inconceivable things that fall-out from it. The film yields an interesting balance between commentary, character study, and enthralling thriller, succeeding admirably on all parts, and managing to make an impression.

The acting is what I appreciated most about Compliance, with excellent performances from all around, performances that are so naturalistic, and so relate-able, that the realism of the film stays consistent and engaging. Especially impressive was Ann Dowd, as the affable, slightly naive, but well meaning manager, who is tragically manipulated. All of the actors had great chemistry, and inhibited a world that so resembles our own, so as to make it that much more unsettling.

The script and direction is also done well, with a great sense of tension, and smart characterizations. While liberties were taken, the heart of the film has a factual basis, and the script did a good job relating what is an all too rule societal problem, why do we unquestionably submit to authority? The one element that didn't quite work, however, was that of the caller, who I felt wasn't appropriately fleshed out, which is disappointing, as the film seemed to allude to some possibly interesting story-lines.

Overall, a thought provoking, uncomfortable, but well executed drama.

4/5 Stars.