Lil Rel Howery, recognized for his humorous role in "Get Out," tackles a new genre in "The Mill." Directed by Sean King O'Grady, Howery spends much of the film pushing a hefty stone, embracing an existential horror theme reminiscent of titles like "Severance" and "Squid Game." However, it falls short of those marks.
In this harrowing scenario, Howery plays Joe, a downtrodden worker, confined within three concrete barriers and tasked with pushing an old millstone. He survives on basic provisions dispensed from a slot: sandwiches, water, and chips. Captured in his decade-old suit, Joe's sole connection to the outside world is Mallard, an Amazon-esque entity. Communicating through upbeat advertisements interspersed with iconic classical music, this omnipotent company shows its dark side, executing underperforming employees.
Jeffrey David Thomas' script emanates frustration towards soul-crushing corporate cultures that view employees as expendable. It reminds us, echoing Roy Wood Jr.'s recent sentiments, that job tenures are transient. While Thomas' theme is potent, it's overshadowed by overt references and dim cinematography.
Joe begins with dedication, striving to excel. This earns him an engraved pen, but it also raises the performance bar, troubling his peers. As "The Mill" explores the labyrinth of worker psyche against a dystopian backdrop, Joe's motivation is fueled by memories of his pregnant wife.
The film's constrained setting and singular actor risk monotony, especially when combined with repetitive actions and a drab setting. Despite the high stakes, accentuated by nightly screams, the plot's pace feels sluggish. The narrative's allegory becomes burdensome, much like the film's central millstone. Patrick Fischler's voice, emanating from the opposite wall, fills in some of the story gaps.
While Howery holds a pivotal position both on and off the screen, "The Mill" reveals his unease with portraying intense anguish. He convincingly embodies an average individual, making it easy for audiences to rally behind him. Yet, his portrayal suggests he's still honing his dramatic craft.
Part of Hulu's "Huluween" lineup, "The Mill" stands alongside "Appendage" as a fresh addition to non-theatrical releases in 2023. While its creation is commendable, the film grapples to establish solid real-world analogies. Its extended 105-minute duration, which could easily be condensed, challenges viewers' endurance. Rather than captivating its audience, "The Mill" tests their patience, culminating in a narrative that tires before its protagonist does.
