Laptop desktop films have become more prominent as technology has progressed, whether it be the horrors of Unfriended and Host or the suspense of Searching .
Profile’s dramatic events all unfold via a computer screen as undercover journalist Amy (Valene Kane) infiltrates the online propaganda channels of the so-called Islamic State, only to develop a relationship with recruiter Bilel (Shazad Latif).
Kazakh-Russian director Timur Bekmambetov is best known for helming action-heavy flicks like Wanted , Night Watch and Day Watch , so this is a real change of pace for him.
Set in 2014, it’s predominantly a two-hander and relies on strong work from Kane and Latif.
Thankfully, they put in sterling performances as a duo who both have hidden agendas.
We see Amy take make-up tutorials and swipe stories from actual Islamic converts to arm her with the appearance and background required to lure her target.
Amy’s ability to instantly hop onto different websites and programmes helps showcase her thoughts and fears.
Latif’s Bilel is hugely charismatic but leaves you never losing sight of the suspicious nature of his ultimate aim.
Amy and Bilel’s bond grows, especially when the latter shares a tragic back story, and as Amy gets more emotionally involved you are willing her to take a step back, ala a dumb teenager walking towards the killer in a slasher movie.
I guess it’s more understandable in a sense, though, as her boyfriend Matthew (Morgan Watkins) is an a**, while she also doesn’t get much support from her boss Vick (Christine Adams).
Bekmambetov’s film toys with the audience’s emotions as well as Amy’s and touches on prejudices, like Amy’s response to her IT support being a Muslim.
The tension is built really well but as it’s coming to a crescendo, the movie just ends, which prevents Profile from achieving the instant modern classic moniker it so nearly has in its grasp.
● What are your thoughts on films presented as being shot on laptops? Is it a genre that has a lengthy future?
Pop me an email at ian.bunting@reachplc.com and I will pass on your comments – and any movie or TV show recommendations you have – to your fellow readers.
● Profile is screening on Sky Cinema now.
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