The Platform Movie: A Cinematic Dive Into Survival, Inequality, And Humanity

Prof. Dean Daniel 25 May 2025

Let’s talk about "The Platform Movie," a film that has sparked countless discussions and debates worldwide. This Spanish dystopian thriller, directed by Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia, is not your average movie. It’s a raw, unfiltered look into the dark side of human nature, societal inequality, and survival instincts. Released in 2019, "The Platform" quickly became a cult classic, leaving audiences both shocked and deeply moved. If you haven’t seen it yet, you’re missing out on a cinematic experience that will stick with you long after the credits roll.

Imagine a vertical prison where food descends from top to bottom on a giant platform. The rich and powerful at the top feast like kings, while the prisoners at the bottom starve to death. Sound familiar? It’s a metaphorical representation of the world we live in, where resources are unevenly distributed, and the gap between the rich and poor continues to widen. The movie challenges us to rethink our values, priorities, and the systems we’ve built.

But "The Platform" isn’t just about the story—it’s about the deeper messages it conveys. It’s about power dynamics, class struggles, and the human capacity for both cruelty and compassion. As we dive into this article, we’ll explore the film’s themes, characters, symbolism, and why it’s more relevant today than ever before. So buckle up and get ready for a deep dive into one of the most thought-provoking movies of recent years.

Overview of The Platform Movie
Plot Summary: What Happens in The Platform?
Key Characters and Their Roles
Themes Explored in The Platform
Symbolism in The Platform Movie
Addressing Inequality in The Platform
Psychological Insights from The Platform
Cinematography and Visuals
The Impact of The Platform on Pop Culture
Final Thoughts: Why You Should Watch The Platform

Overview of The Platform Movie

Let’s set the stage: "The Platform" is a dystopian thriller that takes place in a vertical prison called The Hole. In this prison, there are no cells as we know them. Instead, there are levels—6x6 meters each—stacked one on top of the other. At the top of the prison, the elite enjoy an abundance of food, while those at the bottom face starvation. Every month, the prisoners are randomly relocated to different levels, ensuring no one stays in the same spot for too long. This setup creates a brutal hierarchy where survival depends on your position in the system.

The movie is a chilling exploration of how far people will go when faced with scarcity and desperation. It’s not just about food; it’s about power, privilege, and the lengths people will go to protect their own interests. The film’s premise might sound far-fetched, but it’s a reflection of real-world issues like income inequality, resource distribution, and systemic oppression. And let’s not forget—the ending will leave you questioning everything.

Why Is The Platform So Popular?

There’s something about "The Platform" that resonates with audiences. Maybe it’s the gripping storyline, the stunning visuals, or the thought-provoking themes. Whatever it is, the movie has struck a chord with viewers around the globe. Here are a few reasons why:

It’s relatable: The film’s portrayal of inequality mirrors the real-world struggles faced by millions of people every day.
It’s intense: The movie doesn’t shy away from showing the harsh realities of survival in a broken system.
It’s unique: Unlike many other dystopian films, "The Platform" offers a fresh take on familiar themes, keeping viewers engaged from start to finish.

Plot Summary: What Happens in The Platform?

Alright, let’s break down the plot of "The Platform" without giving away too many spoilers. The story follows Goreng, a man sentenced to three months in The Hole. When he arrives, he’s assigned to Level 48, a relatively comfortable spot in the prison hierarchy. He quickly learns the rules: each day, a platform loaded with food descends from the top level to the bottom. As the platform moves down, prisoners take what they need—or more, depending on their desires and desperation.

Goreng meets a fellow prisoner named Trimagasi, who teaches him the importance of rationing food and sharing with others. Together, they navigate the brutal realities of life in The Hole, witnessing acts of both kindness and cruelty. As the story unfolds, Goreng begins to question the system and its purpose. Why is the prison designed this way? Who benefits from the suffering of the lower levels? These questions drive the narrative forward, leading to a shocking and unforgettable conclusion.

Key Moments in The Platform

Here are a few pivotal moments that shape the story:

The descent: Watching the platform move from level to level is a harrowing experience, showcasing the stark contrast between the haves and the have-nots.
The rebellion: Goreng and Trimagasi’s decision to challenge the system adds tension and drama to the plot.
The twist: The ending of the movie is as unexpected as it is thought-provoking, leaving viewers with plenty to unpack.

Key Characters and Their Roles

Every great movie has memorable characters, and "The Platform" is no exception. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key players:

Goreng

Goreng is the protagonist of the story. He’s a kind-hearted man who volunteers to spend three months in The Hole as part of a social experiment. At first, he’s naive and hopeful, believing that the system can be fair. But as he experiences the harsh realities of The Hole, he becomes more determined to change it.

Trimagasi

Trimagasi, also known as Old Man, is Goreng’s roommate. He’s a wise and experienced prisoner who understands the rules of the game. Trimagasi teaches Goreng the importance of sharing and compassion, even in the face of adversity. His character serves as a moral compass for the story.

Miharu

Miharu is a mysterious woman with a dark past. She joins forces with Goreng and Trimagasi in their quest to challenge the system. Her motivations are complex, adding depth to the plot.

Imogiri

Imogiri is the prison’s warden, a cold and calculating figure who represents the oppressive forces at play. Her character embodies the cruelty and indifference of those in power.

Themes Explored in The Platform

"The Platform" is more than just a movie—it’s a commentary on society and human nature. Here are some of the key themes:

Inequality

The movie’s central theme is inequality. The vertical prison is a metaphor for the real-world disparities between the rich and the poor. It highlights how those at the top benefit from the suffering of those below them, often without even realizing it.

Survival

Survival is another major theme. The film explores how far people will go to stay alive, whether it’s stealing food, betraying others, or even resorting to violence. It’s a raw and unflinching look at the human condition.

Compassion vs. Cruelty

Throughout the movie, we see examples of both compassion and cruelty. Characters like Goreng and Trimagasi represent the former, while others embody the latter. This duality adds depth to the story and raises important questions about morality.

Symbolism in The Platform Movie

Symbolism plays a big role in "The Platform." Here are a few examples:

The platform: The descending platform represents the uneven distribution of resources in society.
The levels: Each level symbolizes a different social class, from the wealthy elite at the top to the struggling masses at the bottom.
The food: Food in the movie is more than sustenance; it’s a representation of power and privilege.

Addressing Inequality in The Platform

Inequality is at the heart of "The Platform." The movie challenges viewers to think critically about the systems that perpetuate inequality in the real world. It’s a call to action to create a fairer and more just society. But how do we address these issues? Here are a few ideas:

Education: Educating people about inequality is the first step toward change.
Policy reform: Governments and organizations need to implement policies that promote equality and reduce poverty.
Community action: Grassroots movements can drive change from the ground up.

Psychological Insights from The Platform

Psychology is a fascinating aspect of "The Platform." The movie delves into the psychology of survival, power, and human behavior. Here are a few insights:

Scarcity mindset: When resources are limited, people tend to act out of fear and self-interest.
Group dynamics: The film explores how people form alliances and rivalries in survival situations.
Moral ambiguity: Characters in the movie often face moral dilemmas, forcing them to question their own values and beliefs.

Cinematography and Visuals

The cinematography in "The Platform" is stunning. The film’s visuals are both haunting and beautiful, capturing the stark contrast between the top and bottom levels of The Hole. Director Galder Gaztelu-Urrutia uses lighting, color, and camera angles to enhance the story’s mood and themes.

One of the most striking aspects of the movie is its use of space. The vertical prison creates a sense of claustrophobia and isolation, emphasizing the characters’ struggles. The descending platform is a visual metaphor for the movie’s central theme, making it a powerful storytelling tool.

The Impact of The Platform on Pop Culture

"The Platform" has had a significant impact on pop culture. It’s been praised by critics and audiences alike for its originality and thought-provoking themes. The movie has sparked discussions about inequality, survival, and human nature, inspiring people to think critically about the world around them.

It’s also been compared to other dystopian films like "Snowpiercer" and "The Hunger Games," but it stands out for its unique take on familiar themes. As more people discover "The Platform," its influence on pop culture is only set to grow.

Final Thoughts: Why You Should Watch The Platform

"The Platform" is a must-watch for anyone interested in thought-provoking cinema. It’s a movie that challenges you to think deeply about society, human nature, and the systems we live in. With its gripping storyline, memorable characters, and stunning visuals, it’s a cinematic experience like no other.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab some popcorn, hit play, and prepare to have your mind blown. And when you’re done, don’t forget to share your thoughts in the comments below or check out some of our other articles on thought-provoking films. Trust me—you won’t regret it.

REVIEW The Platform Is a Beautifully Brutal Depiction of Class Warfare

The Platform 2 Trailer Reveals Gripping First Look at Netflix Dystopian

The Platform (2020) Movie Reviews Simbasible

Global Celebrity News