Amazon Prime Video has quietly introduced a sci-fi thriller that’s left viewers uncomfortable long after the credits roll.
The under-the-radar film, The Assessment, joined Amazon’s ever-evolving selection of films and series as of today (May 8), featuring an array of star power.
The lineup includes Marvel’s Elizabeth Olsen, EastEnders and Yesterday alum Himesh Patel, and Ghosts and You sensation Charlotte Ritchie, with Minnie Driver and Academy Award-winner Alicia Vikander rounding out the roster.
This chilling narrative unfolds in a future where having children is strictly governed by totalitarian rulers.
It centres on one couple’s nerve-wracking week-long evaluation process to obtain permission for parenthood—a process that spirals into a harrowing ordeal, uncovering disturbing truths about their society’s fabric.
The Assessment has snatched a laudable 83% tally on Rotten Tomatoes, earning acclaim for its script and thematic depth over reliance on CGI. Critics have extolled not only its thought-provoking cinematography and compelling lead performances but also the film’s ability to leave a lasting impression on viewers.
One review read: “From the score to the performances to the cinematography, script, and direction, The Assessment is a singular work I won’t soon forget and (the director) Fortuné crafts some imagery here unlike anything that has come before in cinema.”, reports Surrey Live.
Others chimed in, praising the film’s thought-provoking nature, with one saying: “Chilling because it’s both outlandish and alarmingly grounded and plausible, this sci-fi drama is likely to be scrutinised in your own dome long after the credits roll.”
The film has already made a lasting impression on viewers who have seen it, with many singling out Olsen and Vikander’s performances for praise. One online reviewer wrote: “Elizabeth Olsen and Alicia Vikander deliver phenomenal performances. This was a great dystopian sci-fi thriller, and had me constantly guessing what was coming next.”
Another fan expressed surprise that the film hasn’t been generating more buzz ahead of its Amazon Prime release, saying: “This movie needs more buzz. It’s going under the radar for no reason. Alicia Vikander brings in the big guns as she drives home a performance that rivals her role in Ex Machina.”
They added: “She gets to play the gamut of emotions here, from adult to child to toddler.. it’s an actor’s dream! There are so many scenes in this movie that will be discussed for ages to come.”
One viewer described the film’s impact, posting: “What a movie. It’s so uncomfortable. But in a good and bad way, like the bad is good. Definitely one of the more interesting sci-fi films.”
The enthused critic exclaimed: “The story is very different and interesting, I was left deeply disturbed yet amazed and still curious. And on top of that, the acting? Fantastic. Seriously everyone did a great job but Elizabeth and Alicia- holy. Fabulous performances. I know this is an independent film but I really hope this gets some recognition. It was that good.”
The Assessment is streaming on Amazon Prime.