The Experiment

Synopsis

In the gripping psychological thriller The Experiment (Das Experiment), directed by Oliver Hirschbiegel, a group of ordinary men is selected to participate in a controversial psychological study that aims to understand the dynamics of power and authority. Set in a simulated prison environment, the participants are divided into guards and prisoners, leading to a harrowing exploration of human behavior when placed in extreme circumstances. Moritz Bleibtreu stars as Tarek Fahd, one of the prisoners who ultimately struggles to maintain his sense of identity and morality as the lines between authority and rebellion blur. The film dives deep into the ethical dilemmas of psychological experimentation and the profound effects of situational power. As tensions escalate and chaos ensues, the heartbreaking consequences of man's capacity for cruelty and submission emerge. This thought-provoking narrative raises fundamental questions about human nature, making the viewers reflect on the fragility of civilization and the dark impulses within us all.

Cast

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  Moritz Bleibtreu

  Tarek Fahd, Prisoner Nr. 77

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  Christian Berkel

  Robert Steinhoff, Prisoner Nr. 38

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  Justus von Dohnányi

  Berus

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  Maren Eggert

  Dora

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  Edgar Selge

  Professor Dr. Klaus Thon

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  Andrea Sawatzki

  Dr. Jutta Grimm

Reviews

Receiving a mixed to positive critical reception, The Experiment has garnered attention for its intense performances and thought-provoking premise. IMDb users rate it 7.7/10, indicating a strong endorsement from audiences. According to Rotten Tomatoes, it holds a 72% approval rating, suggesting generally favorable reviews from critics. One critic noted, "While the film succeeds in creating an unsettling atmosphere, it also serves as a chilling reminder of how quickly ordinary individuals can succumb to corrupt influences." On Metacritic, it holds a score of 60/100, reflecting a blend of positive and average reviews. Some praised Moritz Bleibtreu's compelling portrayal, stating, "His performance drives the film, showcasing the emotional turmoil with raw authenticity." Conversely, others felt that certain elements of the narrative could be predictable, indicating a 50/50 opinion on its execution. Overall, the film's provocative themes and ethical questions about authority and humanity resonate deeply, contributing to ongoing discussions about the moral implications of psychological experiments.