"Exam" is a gripping psychological thriller that captivated audiences in 2009 with its intense plot and high-stakes premise. Directed by Stuart Hazeldine, this British indie film takes viewers on a suspenseful journey where intelligence and ambition collide in a confined setting.
Release Date and Director: "Exam" was released on August 19, 2009, and directed by Stuart Hazeldine, who is known for his work as a screenwriter and director in the realm of psychological thrillers.
Synopsis:
The film revolves around a group of eight highly competitive candidates who gather in a windowless room to take part in a mysterious and high-stakes job interview for a prestigious corporation. They are given a simple task: answer one question within a specific time limit.
However, there's a catch—there are no questions on the paper, only a blank sheet. As the clock ticks down, tension rises, and the candidates resort to various tactics to uncover the question's true nature.
They must use their wits, creativity, and cunning to decipher the enigma while dealing with their own paranoia, mistrust, and cutthroat competition.
As the candidates race against time, the film delves into themes of ambition, ethics, and the lengths people will go to achieve success. With each passing moment, the room becomes a pressure cooker, and the film keeps viewers on the edge of their seats until the very end.
Significance, Themes, and Why You Should Watch:
"Exam" is a thought-provoking and claustrophobic thriller that explores the human psyche under extreme pressure. It delves into the theme of ambition, revealing the depths to which individuals are willing to go in pursuit of their goals.
The film's suspenseful atmosphere, mind-bending plot, and well-drawn characters make it a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers. It's a testament to the power of storytelling and how a confined setting can be used to create intense and compelling drama.
Where to Stream
United States (US):
There are currently no streaming offers in the US.
- Streaming Services: AMC Plus Apple TV Channel, AMC+ Amazon Channel, AMC+ Roku Premium Channel, AMC+, DIRECTV
- Buy/Rent Services: Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Apple TV, Amazon Video, Google Play Movies, YouTube
- Free Services: None
United Kingdom (GB):
There are currently no streaming offers in the GB.
- Streaming Services: None
- Buy/Rent Services: Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Chili, YouTube, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Chili, YouTube
- Free Services: None
Germany (DE):
There are currently no streaming offers in the DE.
- Streaming Services: Home of Horror, Filmtastic, ArthouseCNMA
- Buy/Rent Services: None
- Free Services: None
Brazil (BR):
There are currently no streaming offers in the BR.
- Streaming Services: None
- Buy/Rent Services: Apple TV, Google Play Movies, Apple TV, Google Play Movies
- Free Services: None
France (FR):
There are currently no streaming offers in the FR.
- Streaming Services: None
- Buy/Rent Services: Apple TV, Orange VOD, Microsoft Store, Universcine, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Orange VOD, Microsoft Store, Universcine, Amazon Video
- Free Services: None
Canada (CA):
There are currently no streaming offers in the CA.
- Streaming Services: IFC Amazon Channel, AMC+ Amazon Channel, AMC+
- Buy/Rent Services: Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Amazon Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, YouTube, Amazon Video
- Free Services: None
Production Details:
Directed by Stuart Hazeldine, "Exam" boasts a talented ensemble cast, including Luke Mably, Adar Beck, and Gemma Chan, who deliver standout performances that add depth and tension to the narrative.
Filming predominantly took place within a single room, which added to the film's sense of confinement and urgency. This minimalist approach posed challenges for the cast and crew, but it ultimately contributed to the film's unique and gripping atmosphere.
"Bowfinger" had a modest budget, which was effectively utilized to create a suspenseful and visually engaging experience. It may not have had a big Hollywood budget, but it made the most of its resources to deliver a compelling story.
Reception and Awards:
Critical Reception: "Exam" received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its suspenseful plot, character development, and thought-provoking themes. The film's ability to create tension within the confines of a single room was widely appreciated.
Audience Reception: Audiences were equally impressed with the film's suspenseful and mind-bending storyline. It gained a dedicated following among fans of psychological thrillers.
Awards and Nominations: While "Exam" didn't receive widespread recognition at major award ceremonies, it earned acclaim for its ability to generate suspense and engage viewers with its intellectual challenges.
Trivia and Fun Facts:
- The film's premise was inspired by a real-life job interview experience of one of the screenwriters.
- The cast spent time together in rehearsals to build camaraderie before filming, which contributed to the on-screen chemistry and tension among the characters.
- The film's minimalist approach and focus on psychological tension over action set it apart from many other thrillers.
In conclusion, "Exam" is a gripping and intellectually stimulating thriller that showcases the power of storytelling within the constraints of a confined space.
With its mind-bending plot, strong performances, and exploration of ambition and ethics, it offers a unique and intense cinematic experience that keeps viewers guessing until the very end. If you're a fan of suspenseful psychological thrillers, "Exam" is a hidden gem well worth discovering.