Exam (2009) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
Directed by Stuart Hazeldine, Exam (2009) is a psychological thriller that centers on a group of candidates competing for a prestigious job in a high-stakes corporate environment. The film’s intriguing premise and tense atmosphere offer a gripping exploration of human behavior under pressure. Starring Adar Beck, Gemma Chan, and Luke Mably, Exam is a suspenseful examination of competition, ethics, and the lengths individuals will go to secure their future. This review will delve into the film’s key elements and provide information on where to watch it online, especially in the U.S.
Plot Summary
Exam follows eight candidates who are shortlisted for a top position at a powerful corporation. They are taken to a sterile, windowless room where they are presented with a simple exam question: “Describe why you are the right person for the job.” However, they quickly realize that the exam is not as straightforward as it seems. The candidates are monitored closely, and the room’s walls conceal hidden dangers and psychological traps.
As the candidates struggle to understand the true nature of the test, tensions rise, alliances form, and the pressure to succeed pushes them to their limits. The film explores how each character reacts to the high-stakes situation and the ethical dilemmas they face.
Adar Beck’s Performance
Adar Beck plays the character of ‘The Candidate,’ whose role evolves throughout the film. Beck’s performance adds depth and tension to the story as his character grapples with the challenges and psychological pressure of the exam. His portrayal highlights the stress and desperation that drive the candidates’ actions.
Gemma Chan’s Role
Gemma Chan plays one of the candidates, offering a strong performance that adds to the film’s emotional and psychological depth. Chan’s portrayal of her character’s struggle and adaptation to the exam’s challenges brings a compelling and relatable aspect to the film.
Luke Mably’s Role
Luke Mably is another key candidate in the film. His performance contributes to the dynamics of the group and the escalating tension. Mably’s role helps drive the narrative and adds to the overall intensity of the film.
Stuart Hazeldine’s Direction
Stuart Hazeldine’s direction ensures that Exam maintains a high level of suspense and psychological tension throughout. His approach to the film creates an intense and claustrophobic atmosphere, effectively capturing the high-stakes environment of the exam.
Hazeldine’s direction focuses on character interactions and psychological dynamics, making Exam a gripping and thought-provoking thriller.
Themes of Competition and Ethics
Exam explores themes of competition, ethics, and the impact of high-pressure environments on human behavior. The film delves into the lengths individuals are willing to go to achieve success and the moral dilemmas they face under extreme stress.
The examination of these themes adds depth to the story and provides a thought-provoking look at human nature and the impact of competitive pressures.
What Works Well
The film’s suspenseful atmosphere and psychological tension are major highlights. Stuart Hazeldine’s direction effectively creates a sense of claustrophobia and urgency, keeping viewers engaged throughout.
The performances, particularly from Adar Beck, Gemma Chan, and Luke Mably, add significant depth and realism to the film. Their portrayals contribute to the film’s emotional and psychological impact.
What Falls Short
Some viewers might find the film’s setting and plot to be limited or repetitive, given the confined space and singular focus on the exam scenario. Additionally, the film’s twist and resolution may feel predictable to those familiar with psychological thrillers.
The film’s emphasis on tension and psychological drama may also be challenging for viewers seeking a more straightforward or action-oriented narrative.
Where to Watch Exam Online
For viewers in the United States, Exam may be available on various streaming platforms or for rental/purchase through online retailers. Availability can vary, so checking the following platforms might be useful:
- Amazon Prime Video
The film may be available for purchase or rental on Amazon Prime Video, where it can be streamed in HD or SD formats. - Apple TV (iTunes)
Exam might be available for rent or purchase on Apple TV (iTunes), with options for download and offline viewing. - Google Play Movies & TV
The film may be available for rental or purchase on Google Play Movies & TV, accessible on a variety of Android devices. - Vudu
Vudu offers the film for rent or purchase in HD, providing high-quality streaming options for viewers. - YouTube Movies
Exam could be available for rent or purchase through YouTube Movies, allowing streaming on any device that supports YouTube.
Is It Worth Watching?
Exam (2009) offers a suspenseful and thought-provoking thriller with strong performances and a gripping narrative. The film’s exploration of competition, ethics, and human behavior under pressure makes it an engaging and intellectually stimulating experience.
While the film’s setting and plot may feel limited to some, its psychological tension and character dynamics make it a worthwhile watch for fans of psychological thrillers and suspenseful dramas.
Conclusion
Exam (2009) delivers a compelling and intense thriller with a strong focus on psychological tension and ethical dilemmas. Directed by Stuart Hazeldine and featuring Adar Beck, Gemma Chan, and Luke Mably, the film explores themes of competition and human behavior under pressure. Available for streaming and purchase on various platforms, Exam offers an engaging and thought-provoking experience for viewers interested in psychological thrillers and suspenseful dramas.
