a satirical observation of cultural corporate dynamics

The US indie movie Secretary was essentially a dark comedy focusing on the burgeoning S&M relationship between a Secretary and her Boss. Whilst amusing, the film avoided any deeply analytical observation in preference to mild titillation. A one-trick pony.

Fear and Trembling, however, abandons the potential for risqu? sexual politics and focuses on the higher intellectual observation of subconscious S&M dynamics within the office space. This is underpinned by the cultural differences of its lead character Sylvie Testud (playing Am?lie, a Belgian Translator) and her attempts to survive the highly complex cultural politics of the Japanese corporate environment.

Initially slow paced, the film soon finds it's own beat and it's hard not to find yourself swept up with the chaotic maelstrom of disasters that suck Am?lie rapidly towards her inevitable decline... not only reaching the bottom rung of the corporate ladder, but creating another one below.

Fear and Trembling succeeds where Secretary fails. If you have worked in even the smallest office environment you'll relate to Am?lie's predicament and the claustrophobic battle of psychology she endures with her fellow work-mates.

Most surprisingly, this film's dry and sophisticated humour is superbly executed. The toxic sense of pleasure each character experiences in torturing Am?lie is subtle and beautifully observed and her survival is a triumph of will. I suspect many women, in particular, may relate to Am?lie's situation.

Fear and Trembling is essential viewing on a fast-track to corporate promotion.