Unveiling ‘The Assistant’: A Captivating Film Review You Can’t Miss!

Wilhelm and Anka Sasnal’s captivating adaptation of Robert Walser’s *The Assistant*, showcased at the Museum of Modern Art’s New Directors/New Films, begins in an unexpected way. The story opens with Joseph Marti (played by Piotr Trojan), who struggles to bind a book in a workshop. After failing, he loses his job. A kind unemployment officer, surrounded by art, suggests he work for inventor Tobler (Andrzej Konopka), who lives with his wife (Agnieszka Żulewska) in a grand villa. The opening scene sets a mysterious, unsettling tone, hinting at deeper themes of servitude and social norms.

As Joseph travels by train to his new job, the film takes us on a smooth journey through time. It feels like a mix of past and present, adding richness to the experience. The soundtrack, mainly composed by Gustaf Dicksson, enhances this dreamlike quality, drawing viewers deeper into Joseph’s world.

When Joseph arrives, he’s offered an abundance of food and cigars, but payment is elusive. The world of invention isn’t thriving. He sees his predecessor, Wirsich, thrown out for drunkenness, performing an odd dance to a Smiths song. Art plays an important role in the villa, echoing works reminiscent of Picasso and Braque, creating an intriguing atmosphere for the characters.

Mrs. Tobler is always elegantly dressed, but her demeanor hints at more complex layers. She struggles with her role as a mother, resisting the care of her daughter in favor of solitude and reading. Joseph finds himself caught in the household, probing the troubling dynamics around him. His growing anxiety stems from the realization that he might remain unpaid indefinitely, resembling a form of indentured servitude.

The film poses thought-provoking questions: How do people truly live? How do they earn a living? While Walser’s original protagonist feels guilty about his unearned comforts, Joseph increasingly fears he might never receive his due. The lush visuals of the estate invite contemplation, offering a rich emotional tapestry as Joseph navigates his role.

Meanwhile, local boys ride their bikes, and Joseph finds an old flame, only to discover she’s the seamstress for Mrs. Tobler’s new dress. The tension in the villa grows, fueled by Tobler’s bizarre inventions that elicit both laughter and concern from onlookers. A party turns surreal under strobe lights, revealing unsettling truths as electricity is cut off by a mysterious figure with red eyes.

Joseph’s journey reveals his talents beyond mere assistance; he finds he can predict outcomes, including the fate of Tobler’s inventions. He reflects, “A humiliated man will never be of any use,” hinting at a bleak future for many like him in a world fraught with uncertainties.

The movie’s themes underscore the struggles of individuals navigating societal expectations and personal ambitions. It’s a poignant exploration of life, work, and the complex nature of human relationships.

If you want to delve deeper into the film’s themes, explore the sociopolitical context of Walser’s time compared to today’s struggles. According to the recent OECD report, about 15% of workers face job insecurity globally, echoing the fears portrayed in *The Assistant*. This narrative resonates with many in modern society, as we navigate similar concerns of livelihood and belonging.

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