Writer & Director
Kitty Green

Starring
Julia Garner and Matthew Macfadyen

An aspiring producer, Jane (played by TV series Ozark actor, Julia Garner) is 5 weeks into an entry-level position as a junior assistant working for a reputable film producer. Almost immediately, it becomes apparent that Jane is subject to workplace exploitation, bullying in the form of exclusion and just generally poor treatment. She’s the first in the office and the last one out. Her colleagues show barely any interest in acknowledging her presence, let alone her dutiful errand fulfilling. Anything that is considered to be an indiscretion on her behalf, no matter how minor or major it might be, is met with a stern reminder of just how lucky she is to be working for the man and company that employs her. All of these observations are made over the course of a single day. As that day progresses, Jane makes her own observations that call into question the conduct of her boss and the culture of her workplace.

Inspired by real-life stories linked to the ‘me too’ movement, there is absolutely no doubt that The Assistant’s subject matter is of utmost importance. Particularly to this very industry. The film effortlessly captivated every ounce of my attention throughout its meticulous account of how a regular day in the office pans out for Jane, which is where it’s set for almost the entire duration. Not everyone will be equally absorbed, however, given the stagnancy of the setting and absence of music or score. Any rises or falls in the film’s tone are kept to a minimum throughout, but the same can’t be said for the working conditions that Jane continues to work in, which gain in weight. More specifically, the bullying expands in scope and frequency, she is berated and verbally abused, and derogatory judgement’s pertaining to her education and social class are very clearly made. It is where all of these observations lead to and the overall point of The Assistant that unfortunately disappoints the most. At first, when it ends, The Assistant feels like two thirds of a film. Upon further reflection and reading, the conclusions formed in the film are acceptable, but a major part of its conclusion and point remains disappointingly under-written and isn’t anywhere near as calculated as it needs to be. Impacts to the protagonist are tangible, but too softened also. What is left is a considerable and irreconcilable gap in Jane’s assumptions and conclusions formed versus my own based upon the same observations.

3 stars

Viewer Discretion
M (coarse language)

Trailer
THE ASSISTANT

Moviedoc thanks Rialto Distribution and Annette Smith: Ned & Co Marketing and Publicity for providing the screener link to watch and review this film.

The Assistant is available to rent via Foxtel on Demand and is available via Google Play, iTunes, Fetch TV, Telstra Bigpond, Sony (Playstation Network), Microsoft & Quickflix from the 24th of June.

Review by Leigh for Moviedoc
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