“Compliance” is the second directorial effort from Homestar Runner website co-creator, Craig Zobel. The film was an official selection at this year’s Sundance and SXSW Festivals, and polarized audiences from Park City, Utah to Austin, Texas.
Reports of numerous walkouts from screenings around the country were plastered on the internet. While this is typically not a good sign, it may have helped create even more buzz and excitement about the indie sleeper.
The film screened courtesy of the Pyschotronic Film Society of Savannah at Muse Arts Warehouse on Oct. 7. Only a small crowd of enthused film-goers turned up — around 20 or so.
The film explores what every day people do when faced with authority and how far they will go beyond their own moral spectrum to adhere to that unwavering authority. As the film’s promotional campaign asks, “When a police officer tells you to do something, you do it. Right?”
That’s where many audience members seemed to take issue with the film. There were many times where a collective “Oh my God!” or “Seriously?” would be uttered. The audience was aghast that these events were taking place, but this event really did happen.
Of course, this is a film and it dramatizes the actual occurrence to an extent. However, when compared to the actual tragic event it is not that far off, and to an extent even downplays certain real-life horrors.
The film is not without fault, though. Its run time seems excessive, although one could argue this is a deliberate decision as it makes the horrific events seem to drag on endlessly. Also, at times the dialogue is stilted and a little unbelievable. This definitely took certain audience members out of the film for a brief moment or two.
At one point there is an awkward conversation between the character of Van and the supposed Officer Daniels, where they discussed whether or not Becky is shaved or trimmed. While extremely off putting, which is its intention, it garnered awkward chuckles from the audience.
However, as a whole, the film is truly terrifying.
This horrifying atmosphere is created in part by director Zobel’s directorial and shooting style. But most of the credit belongs to the cast. Ann Dowd is the standout here, turning in a compelling, confusing and engaging performance as Chikwich restaurant manager, Sandra. Pat Healy fascinates as the terrifying caller Officer Daniels, and Dreama Walker, as Becky, makes you want to jump through the screen and help her stop this disgusting charade.
“Compliance” is not likely to get a wide, national release at all and instead should be content with its limited, city-to-city theatrical run and a probable future home on DVD and OnDemand.
That’s not to say it’s not a good film — it is. But it’s subject matter and disturbing tone won’t appeal to most audiences. If you can stomach the terror, however, or are intrigued by the real life basis for the film, you should be pleased with this outing.
“Compliance” will continue to play in select cities through the end of the year. More information can be found at the film’s official website.
