Monolith
Monolith
5.888%57%
Through the clever containment of a single location and only one on-screen character, Monolith surveils disgraced journalist (rising star Lily Sullivan) as she turns to podcasting to salvage her career, before uncovering a strange artefact that she believes is evidence of an alien conspiracy. The teasing mystery is a product of the ground-breaking Film Lab: New Voices initiative, and uses its creative restraint to compelling advantage.
Spoons reviewedNovember 25, 2024
A masterclass in minimalist storytelling, drawing you into a slow-burn narrative that builds tension with every passing minute. Anchored by a single, visible actor—a bold choice that amplifies the film’s intensity—it offers a deeply introspective experience. The film deftly weaves an allegory for the shifting tides of modern journalism and podcasting, where traditional boundaries blur, and journalists find themselves becoming part of the story they’re trying to tell.
What’s most striking about "Monolith" is its pacing. It’s not in a rush to grab you by the throat; instead, it quietly sets the stage, inviting you to immerse yourself in its themes. The deliberate pacing mirrors the steady erosion of journalistic objectivity in the age of digital storytelling, as the protagonist wrestles with the ethical dilemmas of reporting in a world where sensationalism often overshadows truth.
The lone actor’s performance is captivating, carrying the weight of the narrative while skillfully conveying the film’s subtext. It’s a film that demands patience but rewards viewers with a thought-provoking commentary on the evolving landscape of media and the role of integrity within it.
This film will be popular with people who enjoy introspective, slow-burn dramas like Locke or Buried and those intrigued by the ethical challenges of modern journalism.