Review: A Man On The Inside (Netflix)

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Post on Nov 22, 2024

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Review: A Man on the Inside (Netflix) – A Hilariously Ironic Look at Corporate Greed

Netflix's "A Man on the Inside" isn't your typical corporate thriller. Forget shadowy figures and explosive betrayals; this 2018 mockumentary offers a biting, darkly comedic satire of corporate culture and the absurdity of unchecked ambition. While perhaps not for everyone, its unique blend of humor and social commentary makes for an engaging, if slightly uneven, watch.

The Premise: A Whistleblower with a Conscience (Sort Of)

The film centers around Jerry (Ray Romano), a mid-level employee at a pharmaceutical company, PharmaStar. He's utterly ordinary, a man deeply entrenched in the mundane until he stumbles upon his company's deeply unethical practices. Instead of bravely exposing them, however, Jerry decides to leverage the situation for personal gain, crafting an elaborate, albeit clumsy, plan to profit from his newfound knowledge.

The Humor: Deadpan Delivery and Absurd Situations

The humor in "A Man on the Inside" relies heavily on irony and the deadpan delivery of its cast. Romano shines as the increasingly desperate Jerry, navigating the chaotic world of corporate espionage with a bewildered, almost endearing incompetence. The supporting cast, including Kristen Schaal and Amy Landecker, provide equally strong comedic performances, adding layers of absurdity to Jerry's increasingly convoluted schemes. The film thrives on its unexpected twists and turns, keeping the viewer guessing (though perhaps not entirely surprised) about the ultimate outcome.

What Works:

• Sharp Social Commentary: The film cleverly skewers the amorality of corporate greed, highlighting the lengths companies will go to for profit, even at the expense of public health.
• Strong Performances: Romano's performance is the heart of the movie, perfectly balancing the character's naiveté with his growing desperation. The supporting cast is equally impressive, providing a perfect counterpoint to Romano's understated performance.
• Unique Mockumentary Style: The mockumentary format allows for a playful approach to the story, allowing the filmmakers to poke fun at the tropes of corporate thrillers while still delivering a compelling narrative.

What Could Be Improved:

• Pacing: At times, the film's pacing feels slightly uneven, with certain scenes dragging while others feel rushed. A tighter edit might have benefited the overall flow.
• Predictability: While the film's humor is largely successful, some of the plot points are somewhat predictable, particularly for viewers familiar with the genre.

Is "A Man on the Inside" Worth Watching?

Ultimately, "A Man on the Inside" is a worthwhile watch for those seeking a darkly comedic take on corporate culture. While it might not be a laugh-out-loud masterpiece, its sharp wit and strong performances make it an engaging and surprisingly insightful film. It's a refreshing departure from typical corporate thrillers, offering a unique perspective on ambition, morality, and the absurdity of the modern workplace. If you appreciate dry humor and a satirical take on corporate greed, then this Netflix offering is certainly worth adding to your watchlist. Just don't expect a high-stakes thriller; expect instead a wry, occasionally hilarious, look at the inner workings (and failings) of big Pharma. The film's blend of satire and relatable characters makes it an enjoyable, if slightly flawed, addition to the Netflix catalog.