Under Her Control (2022) - Movie Review

Under Her Control (La Jefa) is a Spanish movie starring Aitana Sánchez-Gijón. It is directed by Fran Torres and the script is written by Laura Sarmiento.

With an interesting premise that is well applied and unfolds in this drama at a measured narrative pace, and a gradual build-up culminating in a thriller, this movie is quite gripping.

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Premise

Sofia is young woman aspiring to build a career in the fashion industry. She faces a possible hindrance to attain her ambitions when she gets pregnant. Her new boss makes her an offer that might help her in her journey.

Review

It has been often that I have fallen into the trap of thinking that this platform offered nothing but stuff for kids, and its releases were substandard with little to add to the greater good of the film industry. And then, every once in a while, I come across a movie that reminds me that the 7^th art is not in demise after all.

Under Her Control is one of those redeeming occasions, when a movie surprises us as a well-constructed piece that, at a measured pace, draws us into a very interesting story. It is a slow-burn thriller with an even and contained tempo, depending heavily on the the actors’ craft.

Filmed with style in mind, it uses lighting effectively, as it adapts according to mood in each scene. Some scenes are more aesthetically fine-tuned than others, for instance in some interior scenes where the natural light is used optimally. The same applies to the photography and the sets. The sequences with the security cameras always work to introduce intrigue in a film, and Under Her Control uses this technique well – without overdoing it.

The movie’s forte lies in the performances, though. The characters are both well profiled and portrayed. Counting on a good cast, particularly notable are the two protagonists, Aitana Sanhez-Gijón in the role as the judicious yet calculated boss, and Cumelén Sanz as Sofía. They convey authenticity, and know how to take on their corresponding roles with authority.

Our opinion

It is a good movie and addition to the streaming platform’s catalogue. The premise itself makes for a good thriller, though its tempo might be too slow for the liking of some viewers.