The Assistant

It might be accurate to call 2019's THE ASSISTANT "one note", but it is one that is very effectively sustained.  Writer/director/co-editor Kitty Green intends for her workplace drama to address the sort of harassment passed down by the Harvey Weinsteins of the world, but the film felt more comprehensive than that.  More than a mere #meToo snapshot in time.  Of course, sexual harassment in these environments has existed far longer than the latter day pigs at Hollywood studios have been around, and Green creates a highly uncomfortable, tense hour and a half that never once succumbs to overstatement.

So those looking for SWIMMING WITH SHARKS type hysteria need to look elsewhere.   Here, the boss is never actually seen.  He is only heard over a telephone and read in e-mail replies.  Jane (Julia Garner) is one of his junior assistants, a sharp but withdrawn young woman who arrives before sun up to begin a day of banal, rote tasks that are barely acknowledged by anyone.  Much like Julia herself, except when she screws up, of course.  Those who have worked in her capacity will relate to the uneasiness of the office environment depicted.  Where whispers are likely daggers.  Jane's boss is gradually, subtly revealed to be a sexual predator.  One who hires barely legal, inexperienced girls and puts them up in expensive hotels.  And expects a poor soul like Julia to train them. 

THE ASSISTANT flows smoothly, but always keeps us feeling uncertain.  This is truly an "in her shoes" type story, one where narrative is minimal and subtext infects every frame.  Green doesn't need her points to be shouted, and with Garner creates a quiet rally cry against the gaslighters who berate and demean and then justify it with "I'm trying to make you great" type ersatz compliments.   The film confirms the futility of honesty and honor in corporate confines, attached to Hollywood or otherwise, very effectively illustrated when Janes takes a complaint to Human Resources.  After a demoralizing meeting, the HR Director offers "Don't worry, you're not his type."

Garner, in a bit of a 180 from her role on Ozark is excellent in a difficult part.  Like the film around her, she communicates the frustration and thanklessness in a fashion that never browbeats, but infects our consciousness slowly, scene by scene.  Leaving us feeling as defeated as she by the end of her workday.