Common Sense Media Review
By Kat Halstead
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Gripping sci-fi one-hander has strong language, threat.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
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Monolith
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In MONOLITH, a disgraced journalist (Lily Sullivan) pursues a story about a mysterious black brick for her burgeoning podcast, Beyond Believable, where she investigates unusual phenomenon. Initially just keen to pull in listeners, she gradually begins to truly believe and uncovers increasingly shocking information that may lead to faraway places, as well as back to her own door.
Is It Any Good?
The only actor on-screen for the entire 94-minute runtime, Sullivan impresses as a disgraced journalist looking for redemption via an eerie unexplained mystery in this psychological sci-fi film. Monolith is a bold title within the genre, particularly for a debut feature from both writer Lucy Campbell and director Matt Vesely, but the film holds together for the most part as a claustrophobic character study with classic sci-fi vibes reminiscent of 2001: A Space Odyssey and Arrival. There are objects of unexplained power, worldwide conspiracies, personal vendettas, psychological disturbances, and the titular formation ever looming on the horizon. A convoluted backstory both ties parts together and unravels others, but the screenplay, direction, set and sound design work masterly as one to maintain viewer interest and commitment -- the resulting sense of unease made all the more powerful with Sullivan's gripping turn at the center.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the theme of unexplained events and conspiracy theories at the heart of Monolith. What was the main character's attitude toward her own podcast at the start of the film, and what did you believe she thought of her potential listeners? How did she change her view as the movie went on? What do you think of these types of podcasts in real life? Are they just fun entertainment, legitimately investigative, or do they take advantage of people?
The movie only has one actor on-screen throughout. What devices did it use to keep things interesting? Can you think of other movies that rely on a single actor in a similar way? How do they compare?
The central character showed curiosity and perseverance in the movie. How important were these qualities in the way the story unfolded? Why are they important character strengths? Did the film show any potential negative sides to them?
Did you find the film scary? If so, which scenes? How much scary stuff can kids handle?
There's lots of strong language used in the movie. What did it contribute to the story? Is a certain level of language expected in a film like this? If so, why?
Movie Details
- In theaters : February 16, 2024
- On DVD or streaming : February 16, 2024
- Cast : Lily Sullivan , Ling Cooper Tang , Erik Thomson
- Director : Matt Vesely
- Inclusion Information : Female Movie Actor(s) , Female Movie Writer(s)
- Studio : Well Go USA Entertainment
- Genre : Science Fiction
- Character Strengths : Curiosity , Perseverance
- Run time : 94 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- MPAA explanation : language
- Last updated : May 2, 2024
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