Spiderhead is a thrilling science fiction movie directed by Joseph Kosinski, based on the short story titled “Escape from Spiderhead” by George Saunders. The film takes place in a dystopian future where prisoners agree to take part in experimental medical tests. These tests involve injecting various serums that induce different emotions and sensations. However, the prisoners are unaware of the secret agenda behind the experiments, which could cost them their lives.
Set to an original Netflix release on June 17, 2022, the film stars prominent actors Miles Teller, Chris Hemsworth, Jurnee Smollett-Bell, Tess Haubrich, and Charles Parnell. Joseph Kosinski, who previously directed “Top Gun: Maverick” in 2022, collaborated with Miles Teller to produce this movie. While Kosinski’s work on “Top Gun” was widely acclaimed, how does “Spiderhead” compare? Here is an in-depth review.
Premise
Spiderhead takes place in a research facility that runs experiments with various serums for medical reasons. These studies are conducted on prisoners who agree to participate in exchange for a reduced prison sentence. Among the actors, Jeff is the focus of the researchers’ observational studies led by Steve Abnesti.
However, the scientists secretly concoct a series of experiments to carry out their sinister agenda. Jeff, for instance, is taken away from the facility to a nearby island to witness a beautiful sight. The catch is that it’s all thanks to a serum that makes him feel euphoric. Steve also injects a serum called “love drug” into Jeff, causing his libido to increase and leading him to have intimate relations with two female prisoners. Apart from multiples experiments, Jeff also forms a bond with one female inmate named Lizzy.
One day, two female prisoners who had intimate relations with Jeff were put in the same room. Steve ordered Jeff to choose one of the two to be injected with Darkenfloxx serum. Knowing the serum is harmful to the body, Jeff refuses, and Steve gives him one day to decide who he would choose.
The next morning, Steve decided to select Heather as the prisoner to be injected with Darkenfloxx. Jeff must gain her approval and will be the trigger for the serum. However, Heather goes berserk and commits suicide by jamming a shard of a table’s leg into her neck. Furious with his assistant’s mistake, Steve punishes his assistant while Jeff sets out to investigate the experimental secret that surprises him.
Characters and Storyline
Spiderhead has a simple yet thrilling plotline with interesting and engaging characters. The character design is exceptional, with Steve portrayed as a morally ambiguous scientist using his intelligence for his advantage. Miles Teller’s depiction of Jeff was charming, displaying his character’s vulnerability and confusion as he gets absorbed in his investigation.
Jeff’s journey throughout the movie is very intriguing, as he tries to uncover secrets while trying to make sure his loved ones are safe, all while struggling to find his own way. Chris Hemsworth, who played the role of Abnesti, was fantastic, commanding authority and presenting himself as a scientist with an impeccable personality.
One minor drawback of the movie is that the story is not well-developed enough. It’s an intriguing premise that had the potential to be a more profound and complex storyline. The filmmakers missed the opportunity to explore the depths of the characters fully. More attention to the plot could have added a lot more depth to the film.
Technical and Visual Production
The movie’s visual production is exceptional, with fantastic cinematography and visual effects. The setting of the prison facility and the nearby island is beautifully captured, and the editing of the scenes is generally robust. The background score complements the visuals, making the movie more intense.
However, the movie’s pacing is quite slow and monotonous, which might bore some viewers, especially those who are fans of fast-paced action movies. Spiderhead tends to drag on with its emotional scenes between characters, making the movie unnecessarily long.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Spiderhead offers an engaging premise with an exceptional cast of characters. The movie’s plot, while intriguing, could have been more profoundly developed, making it an even more thrilling watch. Regardless, the visuals, soundtracks, and technical aspects of the movie are praiseworthy. Fans of science fiction may find this movie refreshing, but those expecting a fast-paced thriller might be disappointed.
