SYNOPSIS:
A thrilling physical journey that allows an approach to the darkness, where it is scary to look. It appeals to the viewer’s civil responsibility and forces them to face the limits of their own solidarity.
CAST:
Milena Smit as Perempuán,
Hovik Keuchkerian as Zamiatin,
Natalia Tena as Sahabat,
Óscar Jaenada as Robespierre,
Ivan Massagué as Goreng,
Armando Buika as Bárbaro Nivel 73,
Antonia San Juan as Imoguiri,
Emilio Buale as Baharat,
Gorka Zufiaurre as Preso SÃndrome de Down,
Ken Appledorn as Lealista Nivel 52,
Hoji Fortuna as Hombre Nivel 52,
Mariamu Toure as Mujer Nivel 23.
CREW:
Directed by Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia,
Screenplay by David Desola, Pedro Rivero, and Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia,
Produced by Carlos Juárez and Raquel Perea,
Cinematography by Jon Sangroniz,
Edited by Haritz Zubillaga,
Music by Aitor Etxebarria.
Release Date: October 4, 2024 (Spain), October 11, 2024 (Netflix).
Running Time: 101 minutes.
Motion Picture Rating (MPA): Rated TV-MA for strong language, violence, and disturbing content.
Distributor: Netflix.
STORY SUMMARY:
“The Platform 2” is a dystopian sci-fi horror film that continues the story of the first movie, “The Platform.” The film is set in the Vertical Self-Management Center, a prison with 333 floors and a hole in the center. Each day, a platform loaded with food descends through the hole, stopping at each level for two minutes. Prisoners on higher floors have first access to food, while those on lower levels risk starvation. The story follows Perempuán, who joins the prison out of grief after causing the death of her fiancé’s son in an accident. She is initially placed on level 24 with Zamiatin, and they encounter the prison’s social dynamics. Two factions exist among the prisoners: Loyalists, who follow self-imposed rules about eating only their chosen food or trading voluntarily, and Barbarians, who eat whatever they can grab. Tensions escalate when prisoners from higher levels eat food meant for others, leading to violent conflicts. Perempuán and Zamiatin fight to defend their level and maintain order. During this chaos, they learn about “The Master” or “The Messiah,” a mythical figure who allegedly survived a month without food through meditation and then sacrificed his own leg to feed others on the lowest levels. Their budding relationship is cut short when they are reassigned to level 180, where no food reaches them. Zamiatin sacrifices himself to protect Perempuán from punishment for harboring him.
REVIEW:
“The Platform 2” is a gripping and intense sequel that delves deeper into the dark and twisted world of the Vertical Self-Management Center. Directed by Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia, the film builds on the first movie’s claustrophobic atmosphere and social commentary, while introducing new characters and conflicts. Milena Smit delivers a compelling performance as Perempuán, capturing her grief and determination to survive. Hovik Keuchkerian’s portrayal of Zamiatin adds depth to the story, as his character grapples with his disillusionment and eventual sacrifice. The film’s ensemble cast, including Natalia Tena and Óscar Jaenada, brings the prison’s social dynamics to life, highlighting the stark contrast between the Loyalists and Barbarians. While the film has received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its intense storytelling and others criticizing its pacing and complexity, it has resonated with audiences for its thought-provoking themes and emotional depth.
CRITICAL RESPONSE:
Critics have had mixed feelings about “The Platform 2.” Some have praised the film for its intense and thought-provoking narrative, while others have criticized it for its pacing and complexity. Despite the mixed reviews, the film has garnered a strong audience response, with many viewers appreciating its dark and gripping storyline.
LIFE LESSONS:
1. The importance of solidarity: The film emphasizes the need for solidarity and cooperation in the face of adversity, as the prisoners must work together to survive.
2. The consequences of inequality: “The Platform 2” highlights the devastating effects of inequality and the struggle for resources, showing how it can lead to conflict and suffering.
3. The power of sacrifice: The characters in the film demonstrate the power of sacrifice, as they make personal sacrifices for the greater good and to protect others.
CONCLUSION:
“The Platform 2” is a dark and intense sequel that builds on the first film’s claustrophobic atmosphere and social commentary. Through its gripping narrative and strong performances, the movie explores themes of solidarity, inequality, and sacrifice, leaving a lasting impact on its audience.
COMMENT PROMPT:
What did you think of “The Platform 2”? Did it make you reflect on any social issues?
