'Terrifying' sci-fi thriller is 'simply a masterpiece' and streaming now on Netflix

A "terrifying" sci-fi film is hailed by fans a "masterpiece" and is "Certified Fresh" on Rotten Tomatoes. The Platform, a Spanish-language thriller released in 2019, is set in a dystopian world and tells the story of a vast vertical prison over multiple levels where inmates are fed using a cruel mechanism that sows anger and desperation among those trapped inside.

A platform descends from the top of "The Hole" down towards the bottom, leaving those on the lower levels with scraps and struggling to survive. The main character, Goreng, sets out to change the system but finds suprising barriers to overcoming it. The film, directed by Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia, is seen by many as a satire of capitalism and the growing chasm between the 'have and have nots' in society.

One Audience Reviewer on Rotten Tomatoes said they were "fortunate to have come across this movie".

"A bold grotesque narrative of the equally wicked system of exploitation," they continued. "A clever portrayal of the notorious trickle down.

"[The] Platform is simply a masterpiece and the equally authentic performance by the whole cast is simply rewarding."

One reviewer said though it had an "intriguing concept" the ending was "confusing", while another called the conclusion "disappointing".

However, the film has a strong 77% score on Rotten Tomatoes' Popcornmeter (which reflects the percentage of users who rated it 3.5 stars or higher) and an 81% Tomatometer rating (the percentage of Approved Tomatometer Critics who gave it a positive review).

Multiple Audience Reviewers gave The Platform either four or five stars, with one saying it is "one of those movies that sticks with you long after the credits roll".

They added: "It's not your typical horror flick, though it definitely has some gruesome moments. This isn't about jump scares, it's about a terrifying concept that's surprisingly relevant to our world."

A third added: "Loved the film seen it a few times now would recommend seeing it fantastic storyline and something different to watch if you want something new."

The film is rated 18, with some pretty brutal moments. The British Board of Film Classification (BBFC) flags "Violence, Injury Detail", and "Threat" in the movie, so it may not be for everyone.

The Platform is streaming now on Netflix.