Amazon adds thriller with Oscar winner that deserves more buzz

Daily Mirror

08-05-2025

It has been added to the service without much fanfare
Amazon Prime has just thrown a hidden gem into the mix with an 'under the radar' sci-fi thriller that's left viewers on edge.
The second to none streaming platform has expanded its ever-evolving treasury of cinematic pieces with The Assessment from today (May 8). The film features a blockbuster roll call, starring Marvel's beloved Elizabeth Olsen and the multi-talented Himesh Patel, recognizable from EastEnders to Yesterday fame.
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Joining the duo is Charlotte Ritchie of Ghosts and You acclaim, alongside Minnie Driver and the Academy Award-winning Alicia Vikander.
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As per the film's official synopsis, we're thrust into a near-future where childbearing comes with strings attached—courtesy of government control. A couple embarks on a haunting seven-day vetting process for the privilege to parent, only to find their lives spiralling into a waking nightmare, prompting them to reckon with the very bedrock of their world.
Critics have lavished the flick with an 83% fresh rating on the Rotten Tomatoes barometer. Applause has been heaped upon its story-driven narrative and thematic depth, eschewing reliance on flashy CGI fireworks, reports Surrey Live. Accolades for the sublime camera work, spell-binding central performances, and the movie's resonating themes that stick with viewers as the credits roll.
One reviewer was particularly moved, stating: "From the score to the performances to the cinematography, script, and direction, The Assessment is a singular work I won't soon forget and (the director) Fortuné crafts some imagery here unlike anything that has come before in cinema."
Another remarked: "Chilling because it's both outlandish and alarmingly grounded and plausible, this sci-fi drama is likely to be scrutinised in your own dome long after the credits roll."
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The film has similarly left a lasting impression on cinema-goers who've caught an early glimpse, with many singing high praises for Elizabeth Olsen and Alicia Vikander's portrayals. A fan shared online: "Elizabeth Olsen and Alicia Vikander deliver phenomenal performances. This was a great dystopian sci-fi thriller, and had me constantly guessing what was coming next."
Another curious movie enthusiast questioned the lack of pre-release chatter on social media platforms, commenting: "This movie needs more buzz. It's going under the radar for no reason. Alicia Vikander brings in the big guns as she drives home a performance that rivals her role in Ex Machina."
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They endorsed Vikander's range: "She gets to play the gamut of emotions here, from adult to child to toddler.. it's an actor's wet dream! There are so many scenes in this movie that will be discussed for ages to come."
Meanwhile, another viewer encapsulated the experience of watching the film with their thoughts: "What a movie. It's so uncomfortable. But in a good and bad way, like the bad is good. Definitely one of the more interesting sci-fi films."
They gushed about the film, saying: "The story is very different and interesting, I was left deeply disturbed yet amazed and still curious. And on top of that, the acting? Fantastic. Seriously everyone did a great job but Elizabeth and Alicia- holy. Fabulous performances. I know this is an independent film but I really hope this gets some recognition. It was that good."