The Platform (El Hoyo, 2020) is a Spanish dystopian sci-fi horror film directed by Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia. The film quickly gained attention for its unique premise and social commentary, blending psychological thriller elements with a dark, brutal critique of class inequality.
The story takes place in a mysterious, vertical prison-like structure called “The Hole,” where each floor houses two inmates. The prisoners are fed via a platform that starts at the top floor and slowly descends, with a lavish spread of food. The higher up a prisoner is, the more food they get, while those on the lower floors are left with the scraps that remain. As the platform descends floor by floor, the prisoners on the lower levels often get little to no food, leading to desperation, violence, and a struggle for survival.
The protagonist, Goreng (played by Iván Massagué), wakes up in the Hole with no memory of how he got there, and he quickly learns about the brutal, inhumane system in place. He is placed on a new floor each month, which means he could find himself in a better or worse position depending on his placement. Throughout the film, Goreng tries to navigate the harsh dynamics of the prison, grappling with morality, hunger, and human nature. His journey becomes a struggle for both survival and trying to understand the purpose of the system, all while facing his own inner turmoil and moral dilemmas.
The film explores themes of social inequality, survival, and the dehumanizing effects of extreme capitalism. The vertical prison serves as a powerful metaphor for class structures—those at the top have abundance, while those at the bottom suffer. The film’s brutal depiction of these inequalities, combined with the horror elements of the prisoners’ desperation, creates a tense and disturbing atmosphere throughout.
The Platform is visually striking, with a minimalist, industrial aesthetic that emphasizes the oppressive, cold nature of the setting. The film’s pacing is deliberately slow, building tension as Goreng and his fellow prisoners face increasingly dire situations. As the story unfolds, the film raises questions about solidarity, selfishness, and whether it’s possible to break free from a system designed to keep people divided and unequal.
The ending of the film is ambiguous and open to interpretation, leaving viewers to reflect on its deeper social and philosophical messages. It offers no easy answers but instead prompts questions about humanity’s ability to change, challenge, and ultimately survive in such a harsh system.
The Platform received praise for its innovative premise, thought-provoking social commentary, and the performances of its cast. Its mix of horror, psychological drama, and social critique has made it a memorable film for those who enjoy disturbing, genre-bending stories with a deeper meaning.
If you’re into dark, intense, and intellectually challenging films that critique societal structures, The Platform is a must-watch. It’s not an easy watch, but it’s certainly a film that will stick with you long after you’ve finished it.
