The Subject – Movie Review
Director: Lanie Zipoy
Writer: Chisa Hutchinson (Screenplay)
Cast
- Jason Biggs (American Pie)
- Aunjanue Ellis (King Richard)
- Anabelle Acosta (Kill Chain)
- Nile Bullock (Premature)
Plot: THE SUBJECT follows a successful white documentary filmmaker dealing with the fallout from his previous film which caught the murder of a Black teen on tape. Now, someone films his every move, threatening his idyllic life.
Runtime: 1 Hour 59 Minutes
There may be spoilers in the rest of the review
Story: The Subject starts as documentary filmmaker Phil Waterhouse (Biggs) is reflecting on his latest project. His project followed a black teen Malcolm Barnes (Bullock) but ended up catching his murder. Phil’s girlfriend Jess (Acosta) is trying to push him to get over his involvement in the project.
However, Phil discovers that he is being stalked by somebody, putting his own and Jess’ life in danger. As Phil looks to try and continue with his next project, he sees his own life becoming complicated. He sees the threat becoming more serious, but can he figure out who is following him?
Verdict on The Subject
The Subject is a drama following a creator who faces the consequences of his latest project. He saw the latest subject of his film murdered, leading to him seeing his own life put at risk. All this as he gets a chance to face the mother of the boy who wants to know what happened.
This is a powerful drama, which comes to life in the second half. Jason Biggs and Aunjanue Ellis take complete control of the movie. Their sequence of looking back on the incident gets to put the firm spotlight on art versus the artist. The first half of the movie doesn’t reach the same heights, despite being used to show Phil’s more honest personality. This movie does get elevated by the second half which pulls on the emotional part of anybody.
Where to Watch: Bulldog Film Distribution presents The Subject on digital HD on 20th February.
Final Thoughts –The Subject is a powerful drama with a career-best performance from Jason Biggs.
