The Assistant Review: A Bold Approach to the Flawed Film Industry and MeToo Movement

In the dimly lit office, Jane, the dedicated protagonist, arrives early, her conscientiousness evident in every precise movement. A recent cinema graduate with dreams of producing, she now finds herself entangled in a web of despotism, her aspirations fading as she navigates the labyrinthine corridors of survival. Kitty Green, the masterful director, skillfully weaves a tale that never explicitly names Harvey Weinstein but hauntingly evokes the presence of a fallen potentate, a shadowy specter that lingers in the background.

In a cinematic triumph, “The Assistant” transcends conventional storytelling, relying on the power of silence and actions to convey its potent message. Green’s seriousness in addressing the subject matter prevents it from devolving into a mere tale of cosmetic feminism, instead offering a nuanced exploration of a complex and oppressive system.

The film’s brilliance lies not in the words spoken but in the gestures left unspoken. Moments like the printing of photos, hinting at the exploitation of young women, resonate deeply, leaving an indelible impression on viewers. Green masterfully illuminates the toxic solidarity within the boys’ club, refusing to hold the audience’s hand, allowing them to perceive the disturbing reality without resorting to pedantic explanations.

At the heart of “The Assistant” is Julia Garner, a brilliant actress who effortlessly conveys a myriad of emotions with minimal dialogue. With mere murmurs and distant shouts in the background, Garner’s Jane carries the weight of tremendous pressure while remaining acutely aware of the unsettling truth lurking beneath the surface. The film poignantly questions, “What can we do?” as Jane seeks support in a disconcertingly complacent environment.

With “The Assistant,” Green proves her mastery as a filmmaker, delving into the exploitation of women, a theme she previously explored in her documentary “Casting JonBenet.” Her choice of a silent but powerful narrative compels audiences to reflect on their own perception of female exploitation in both the film industry and society at large.

In the clinical portrayal of professional tasks, Green exhibits remarkable precision, resulting in a devastatingly observant depiction. Her meticulous research and empathetic approach elevate the film, focusing intensely on Jane’s journey, which unfolds with disturbing routines of degradation and alienation.

Though Green avoids indulging in facile narrative resolutions, the film remains gripping as it subtly builds towards a breaking point in Jane’s life. A trip to a hotel, accompanied by an even more naive assistant, triggers a sense of impending doom, and viewers are held in suspense, uncertain of the outcome.

With relentless sobriety, Green crafts a hypnotic experience, allowing audiences to gradually empathize with Jane’s predicament. The gradual accumulation of revealing fragments leaves moviegoers in a state of amazement, mirroring the protagonist’s slide into a sea of internalized conflicts.

Julia Garner’s captivating performance is a symphony of subtlety, bringing Jane’s inner turmoil to life with astonishing authenticity. Her expressive eyes convey a multitude of emotions, capturing the essence of a character on the verge of unraveling.

“The Assistant” courageously rejects cinematic solicitation, instead favoring a sober, introspective approach that lingers in the mind long after the credits roll. This fascinating prelude to the MeToo and TimesUp movement serves as a powerful testament to the impact of film in shedding light on pressing social issues, leaving a profound and lasting impact on its audience.