The Platform 2 (El hoyo 2): Movie Review

The Platform 2 (El hoyo 2) Movie Review: Pointless Redux

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We were intrigued to discover that a new film based on "The Platform" had arrived, almost five years after the original surprised us in 2020. Back then, the world was in lockdown, and the film’s sharp commentary on an inescapable prison resonated strongly in our collective moment of crisis. But now, as life has returned to normal, "The Platform 2" fails to recapture the same power, offering a messy, confusing narrative that ultimately feels like a redundant and pointless rehash of the original's themes.


The film follows Perempuan (Milena Smit) and Zamiatin (Hovik Keuchkerian), two inmates in the notorious "Vertical Self-Management Center" prison. Inside, they encounter two opposing factions: the loyalists, who believe in solidarity and equality, and the barbarians, who prioritize survival at any cost. As tensions between these groups mount, Perempuan and Zamiatin are forced to make choices that could determine their survival.


Unfortunately, "The Platform 2" stumbles right out of the gate. The film is riddled with underdeveloped plot points, and key revelations feel disjointed, failing to connect into a cohesive whole. The narrative never finds its footing, and as a result, the character arcs are muddled and directionless. While the film once again attempts to explore intriguing philosophical and societal ideas, they’re drowned in a confused, aimless plot that lacks the sharp focus of its predecessor. Despite the weak writing, Milena Smit delivers a commendable performance. She brings emotional depth to Perempuan, even though the odds were stacked against her. The visuals, as in the first film, remain a highlight. The dark, oppressive atmosphere of the prison is well-executed, and the gruesome imagery still packs a punch. However, these visual flourishes feel like hollow distractions, unable to make up for the lack of narrative clarity or substance. In the end, "The Platform 2" struggles to justify its existence feeling like were getting the sordid end of leftovers. What made the original so compelling feels diluted and pointless this time around and while there are moments of potential, the film ultimately feels completely unnecessary.


Rating: 1 and a half reels


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