Fair Play

You really should see Fair Play if you're in the mood for a thriller with lots of tension and a workplace with much more stakes. This drama-thriller, which was released in 2023, goes well beyond your typical corporate America tour as it explores the poisonous underbelly of a cunning hedge fund, where the desire for success and power can make or break you, as well as your relationships.

Emily, portrayed by the captivating Phoebe Dynevor, is the main character of the film. Her rise up the corporate ladder, which begins when she is promoted over her colleague and lover, Luke, portrayed vividly by Alden Ehrenreich, sets off a chain reaction of emotions. The promotion not only challenges the gender role dynamics within their relationship, but it also brings the secrecy of their office romance under scrutiny.

Initially, Luke appears genuinely happy for her, but it doesn’t take long for the reality of the situation to sink in. As an audience, I expected Luke to feel threatened and act out, but I was taken aback by the intensity of his reaction and the growing distance between them.

Meanwhile, the transition Emily goes through while trying to blend in among "the guys" is wonderfully portrayed. This is particularly highlighted during a scene at a strip club, where she is visibly uncomfortable yet compelled to blend in as crude jokes are exchanged and passed off as humor. As a viewer, I wanted Emily to voice her disapproval. You can sense she's torn between asserting her dignity and maintaining the professional relationships critical to her newfound position. This moment starkly highlights the compromises women often have to navigate in male-dominated industries.

Director Chloe Domont doesn't hesitate to create discomfort for the viewers; every scene is painstakingly designed to intensify the tension to nearly excruciating levels. The individuals' struggles on a personal and professional level are intensely depicted thanks to the cinematography and close-ups that thrust you into the heart of the storm. As the plot progresses, we witness the confrontation between the couple. Although their interactions are uncomfortable and toxic, the rawness with which they tear each other apart feels unsettling yet natural, reflecting the inevitable fallout of their intertwined ambitions and personal dynamics.

In summary, Fair Play is a thrilling ride through the darker side of ambition and love, wrapped up in a slick, stylish package. If you're a fan of intense dramas or just looking for a film that makes you think while on the edge of your seat, this movie deserves a spot on your watch list.