The Thinning (2016) Movie Review – Where to Watch Online
The Thinning (2016), directed by Michael J. Gallagher, is a dystopian thriller that explores a future where population control is enforced through standardized testing. Starring Logan Paul and Peyton List, the film presents a world where students must pass rigorous exams to avoid being “thinned” or eliminated, in a government-driven effort to control overpopulation. With its dark, thought-provoking premise, The Thinning offers a fresh twist on the young adult dystopian genre, combining social commentary with high-stakes action.
In this review, we’ll dive into the film’s plot, characters, themes, and discuss where you can stream or rent The Thinning online, especially in the United States.
Plot Overview: Survival Through Testing
Set in a near-future America, The Thinning takes place in a society where overpopulation has led to drastic government measures. To manage resources, the government implements a strict policy where students from kindergarten through 12th grade must pass annual standardized tests. Those who fail are “thinned” — a euphemism for being executed — to maintain a sustainable population.
The story centers around two high school students, Blake Redding (Logan Paul) and Laina Michaels (Peyton List), who find themselves caught in the middle of this deadly system. Blake is the privileged son of Governor Redding (Matthew Glave), the man responsible for enforcing the Thinning policy, while Laina is a hardworking student from a lower-class family. Despite Blake’s social status, he decides to fail the test on purpose as an act of rebellion after the loss of someone close to him. Laina, on the other hand, excels academically but faces a corrupt system that threatens to take everything from her.
As Blake and Laina discover the dark secrets behind the testing system, they must fight for their lives and expose the corruption at its core. Their journey leads them to uncover shocking truths about the real purpose of the Thinning, raising questions about power, morality, and the value of human life.
Logan Paul and Peyton List: A Strong Lead Duo
Logan Paul, known primarily for his online presence, takes on a serious role as Blake Redding, showcasing a range of emotions from defiance to vulnerability. His performance as a rebellious teen, willing to challenge the system even at the cost of his own life, adds depth to a character that could have easily been one-dimensional. Paul brings a surprising intensity to the role, balancing the charisma of a popular teen with the emotional weight of someone grappling with personal loss and moral dilemmas.
Peyton List, known for her work on Disney Channel, shines as Laina Michaels, a determined and intelligent student who represents the “ordinary” people affected by the system. List’s portrayal of Laina is grounded and empathetic, making her character relatable as she struggles to navigate a world where intelligence and effort are not enough to guarantee survival. Laina’s resilience in the face of adversity makes her a compelling character to root for, as she fights to protect her family and expose the truth.
The chemistry between Paul and List helps drive the narrative forward, with their characters’ different backgrounds creating a dynamic that explores privilege, rebellion, and the harsh realities of living under an oppressive regime.
Themes: Social Commentary and the Value of Human Life
The Thinning offers more than just a tense, action-filled storyline. At its core, the film critiques societal pressures, especially in the education system. The concept of using standardized testing as a means of population control is a clear commentary on the dangers of over-reliance on test scores to determine a student’s worth or future. It exaggerates real-world issues, highlighting the flaws in systems that reduce individuals to numbers and scores rather than recognizing their inherent value as human beings.
The film also explores themes of class disparity, showing how the wealthy can manipulate systems for their own benefit, while the less fortunate are left to struggle. Blake’s decision to intentionally fail his test, despite his father’s power, contrasts with Laina’s determination to succeed despite the systemic disadvantages she faces. The film critiques how corruption and power imbalances can skew even the most well-intentioned policies.
At its heart, The Thinning questions the morality of sacrificing individual lives for the “greater good.” The film forces the audience to consider what happens when society values survival of the fittest over compassion and equality.
Visual Style and Atmosphere
Director Michael J. Gallagher creates a visually bleak and tense atmosphere, reflecting the oppressive nature of the world in The Thinning. The film’s aesthetic is clean and modern, with a cold, clinical look that mirrors the rigid and dehumanizing society it portrays. The use of technology is a key element in the film, with digital screens, cameras, and surveillance equipment omnipresent, symbolizing the control the government exerts over its citizens.
The action sequences are well-executed, building tension as the characters navigate dangerous situations and confront powerful forces. The pacing of the film keeps viewers engaged, with moments of suspense interspersed with emotional beats that explore the personal stakes for the characters.
Criticism and Reception
While The Thinning presents an intriguing premise and solid performances, it does have some shortcomings. Some critics argue that the film doesn’t fully explore the complexities of its themes, opting instead for a more surface-level treatment of its dystopian world. The film’s pacing can feel rushed at times, especially toward the climax, where major plot points are revealed in quick succession without fully delving into the implications.
However, for fans of dystopian thrillers, The Thinning offers an entertaining and thought-provoking experience. Its blend of social commentary, action, and young adult drama makes it a compelling watch for those who enjoy films like The Hunger Games or Divergent.
Where to Watch The Thinning Online in America
If you’re looking to watch The Thinning online, here are the platforms where it’s currently available for streaming or rental in the United States:
Streaming Services
- YouTube Premium: The Thinning is an original production from YouTube Red (now known as YouTube Premium), and it remains exclusive to the platform. You can watch the film as part of a YouTube Premium subscription, which also offers ad-free viewing and access to other original content. YouTube Premium is available across devices, making it easy to stream the film on your phone, tablet, computer, or smart TV.
Rental and Purchase Streaming Services
While The Thinning is a YouTube original, it is also available on some rental and purchase platforms:
- Google Play Movies: You can rent or purchase The Thinning on Google Play Movies, allowing you to stream it on any device connected to your Google account.
- Amazon Prime Video: Though not included with a subscription, The Thinning is available for rental or purchase on Amazon Prime Video.
- Apple TV: Apple users can rent or purchase The Thinning through Apple TV, giving them the option to stream the film in high definition on their Apple devices.
- Vudu: Vudu offers rental and purchase options for The Thinning, allowing for streaming on smart TVs, Roku, and other devices.
Final Thoughts
The Thinning is a dystopian thriller that raises important questions about the value of human life, the dangers of systemic inequality, and the consequences of over-reliance on standardized testing. With strong performances by Logan Paul and Peyton List, and a tense, thought-provoking premise, the film delivers an engaging viewing experience for fans of the genre.
While it may not delve as deeply into its themes as some viewers might hope, The Thinning is a solid entry into the young adult dystopian canon. It’s an entertaining and suspenseful film that offers both action and commentary on real-world issues, making it well worth watching, especially for those interested in societal critiques.
With easy access on YouTube Premium and other streaming platforms, it’s a movie that’s just a click away from your next movie night.
