The recently released movie “The Belko Experiment” focuses on human nature and the significant barrier between kindness and the will to survive. The film, directed by Greg McLean, came out on March 17. It took in $4.2 million in ticket sales in its first week.

The plot centers on The Belko Industry introducing a game for eighty employees working in Bogota, Colombia. The employees have no idea what horrific experience they are about to face. While working in a seemingly good-humored and friendly environment, the workers hear a voice over the p.a. tell them to kill their co-workers or face the consequences. They presume this to be a joke.

 (Andy Morgan via Flickr, Creative Commons)

In fact, “the game” is both psychologically and physically twisted. Explosive chips have been implanted in the backs of the staff members’ heads and, if thirty employees are not dead within thirty minutes, sixty more will be killed. The aim is that, eventually, there will be only one survivor who finishes the experiment.

This film depicts individuals acting on their own instincts of self-preservation. It is possible that McLean is arguing that, when forced, the humans will act out of selfishness. This represents survival of the fittest at its worst. At the end of this thriller, the director throws in a huge plot twist. Everyone is a part of a much bigger experiment.

Abigail Yurich,’19, observed, “This film is gory but filled with many surprises. I could barely keep my eyes off the screen.” She eagerly looks forward to the sequel. Janie Peterson ,’17, agreed: “This movie was disturbing but a thriller.”

Samantha Sitarz ,’18, considers herself to be a serious movie goer. She tries to see movies any time she has the chance. She is also a big critic. Sam said, “The movie was entertaining, but I expect the next one to be better.”