In the dystopian indie drama The Assessment, nature plays a pivotal role in unraveling the strange, mesmerizing world of the film. Directed by Fleur Fortuné, the film is set in a post-apocalyptic landscape where couples must undergo a state-mandated test to prove their ability to become parents. The movie, now in theaters, follows Mia (Elizabeth Olsen) and Aaryan (Himesh Patel) as they welcome Virginia (Alicia Vikander), an assessor, into their home for seven days. The assessment turns out to be anything but ordinary, as Virginia takes on the role of a child, requiring the couple to demonstrate their parenting skills by bathing and feeding her.
The film’s futuristic yet familiar world explores the consequences of a climate disaster that nearly wiped out humanity, with the government now controlling reproduction. Mia and Aaryan live in a society divided from the “old world,” a devastated area marked by environmental collapse. Their home, located by the ocean, is equipped with modern technology, such as smart voice commands and virtual animals created by Aaryan, while Mia tends to a greenhouse of plants. The story’s haunting backdrop of the climate crisis invites viewers to reflect on parenting, ethics, and environmental issues.
In a recent interview, Olsen and Vikander shared their experiences filming on location in Tenerife, Spain, and discussed how the natural environment shaped their performances.
A Director with a Unique Vision
Vikander praised Fortuné for her strong visual language and clear direction. “We were really inspired by Fleur’s work, particularly the music videos and short films she made before. She knows exactly what kind of film she wanted to make, right from the beginning, and communicated her vision in a very impressive way,” said Vikander.
Olsen agreed, describing Fortuné as a singular person with a distinctive approach. “She processes things in a way that’s entirely her own. It’s like a ‘Fleur filter.’”
A Thought-Provoking Premise
Olsen and Vikander were drawn to the film’s premise, particularly its subtle commentary on reproductive rights. “The film doesn’t tell you what to think or believe,” Olsen explained. “It offers space for reflection on our rights, the resources we consume, and the ethics of parenthood. It’s a story that allows audiences to come away thinking about these issues without delivering a clear thesis statement.”
An Unconventional Sci-Fi World
The film’s sci-fi setting stands out from other films in the genre. Vikander found the world of The Assessment to be a refreshing departure from minimalist sci-fi, noting the earthy, organic elements in the design. “We shot in Tenerife, and the environment—especially with actual wildfires happening during filming—really brought the film to life,” Vikander said. The production utilized the island’s natural features, including volcanic sand, which was incorporated into Aaryan’s office set, adding a tactile connection to the world’s history.
Olsen shared her excitement about the set design, particularly the grand, privileged space the characters inhabit. “There’s something interesting about how privilege is depicted in this world. It’s not driven by capitalism, but by the usefulness of individuals, like Aaryan and Mia, to society through their scientific work,” Olsen said.
Alicia Vikander’s Childlike Transformation
Vikander’s role as Virginia, who mimics the behavior of a child during the assessment, presented unique challenges. The actress drew inspiration from her own experiences as a mother, having recently given birth during filming. She reflected on how memories from her own childhood informed her portrayal. “It was like rediscovering forgotten memories of my own behavior as a child,” Vikander said. “I wanted to avoid caricature and make Virginia’s behavior real and profound, as if it could help the characters connect on a deeper level.”
Elizabeth Olsen and the Physicality of Mia
For Olsen, playing Mia involved a deep connection to nature and the character’s physicality. “Mia is very much in her body and in tune with the natural world,” Olsen explained. “Her movements and even her appearance reflect a wildness that contrasts with the formal demeanor she adopts around the assessor.” Olsen also highlighted the significance of Mia’s relationship with her mother, which shapes the character’s motivations and decisions in the film. “There’s a sense of abandonment, but also a realization that her mother made courageous choices to live life on her own terms,” Olsen said.
The Power of Nature on Set
The film’s set in the greenhouse, with real plants and an authentic irrigation system, contributed to the authenticity of the world. Olsen described the location as powerful, particularly given the wildfires and harsh winds occurring in Tenerife during filming. “It felt like the plants were precious, surviving in an environment that seemed almost inhospitable,” Olsen said. “It really mirrored the challenges the characters face in their world.”
As The Assessment continues to draw attention with its thought-provoking themes and strong performances, the film’s naturalistic setting and poignant exploration of parenting and ethics in a post-apocalyptic world leave a lasting impression on its audience.
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