Subject 36

Subject 36 is a captivating drama-mystery film from Australia that takes audiences into the depths of the human psyche, unraveling intriguing secrets and truths along the way. Released in 2017, the film is directed by Alexander Lorian and features notable performances from Matthew Nicholas Phillips, Codey Finlay, and Laura Bedford.

The plot primarily revolves around a young man named Gwen (Matthew Nicholas Phillips), who internally battles with isolation and is captivated by the allure of the human connection. He unearths a world of intimacy where the line between reality and fantasy are seamlessly blurred. A pivotal aspect of Gwen's life is his infatuation with a woman named Lana (Laura Bedford), who tragically died years ago. Constantly yearning for Lana, Gwen finds himself on a voluntarily solitary quest, taking up the role of a street voyager and searching for truth behind his constructed reality.

The story weaves a sophisticated tapestry of love, loss, and obsession, beautifully encapsulated in the character of Gwen. His obsession with Lana provides a pivotal turning point in his life, compelling him to go on an exploratory journey to discover reality amid the noise of his confounding thoughts. The narrative brings us close to experiencing Gwen's inner world, and through his lens, we receive glances into the human condition that underscore the desperate longing to connect, to love, and to apprehend reality.

Matthew Nicholas Phillips delivers a compelling performance as Gwen. He successfully brings to life the inherent sadness and reclusive nature in Gwen's character, working diligently to blur the lines between Gwen’s mysterious infatuation and his harsh reality. Laura Bedford, who plays Lana, offers depth and gravity to her role with a stunning performance. Her portrayal lends her character an ethereal quality that successfully amplifies the sense of longing Gwen holds for her.

As the film progresses, another crucial character enters the framework - Max (Codey Finlay), a private investigator who's equally drawn into Gwen's intertwined life and fantasy. Finlay’s extraordinary performance skillfully portrays Max's intrigue and desire to unravel the enigma that is Gwen. His involvement adds to the complexity of the story, resulting in a more profound narrative arc that effectively binds viewers to the unfolding plot.

Subject 36 is more than just your conventional mystery thriller. It contrasts the tangible and intangible aspects of our lives, exploring themes such as obsession, unattainable love, longing, and illusions we curate to comfort ourselves amidst reality. The film delicately paints a portrait of a man who is ceaselessly attempting to grasp onto, yet eludes, the realities of life, further escalating the enigma within the story.

The cinematography in Subject 36 is noteworthy, capturing the atmospheric tension and tones of the narrative beautifully. These elements aid in unfolding the plot through visual storytelling, contributing significantly to the overall ambience of the film. The director, Alexander Lorian, manages to merge the stunning visuals with a complex narrative without compromising the storyline's suspenseful pulse, which remains consistent throughout the film.

In terms of its soundtrack, Subject 36 offers an eclectic mix that harmonizes perfectly with the film’s temperaments. The music intensifies the pensive moments and then subtly fades into the background, further enhancing the mystery and suspense inherent in the story.

The movie Subject 36 is a striking addition to the genre of drama and mystery, intriguing audiences with its complex narrative, compelling performances, and visually stunning storytelling. The film serves as a potent reminder of the thin lines between reality and fantasy, underscoring how our longing and obsessions can lead us into an abyss of reclusive thoughts.

Through its unique storyline and brilliant performances, Subject 36 takes viewers on a thoughtful, suspense-filled journey into the depths of the human mind and the intertwining of love, loss, and fantasy. This film is a commendable pick for those who want to witness an engaging, complex narrative, accompanied by substantial renderings on the human condition.