Project X

In the 1987 science fiction drama Project X, Matthew Broderick, Helen Hunt, and Willie deliver captivating performances in a plot that intertwines ethical dilemmas, intrigue, and an expansive look into the realm of sentient beings. This film, directed by Jonathan Kaplan and with a screenplay written by Lawrence Lasker and Stanley Weiser, offers its audience a gripping thriller.

The film centers around Jimmy Garrett (Matthew Broderick), a young Air Force pilot. Garrett is a problematic but talented pilot who is forcibly reassigned to a top-secret military experiment following a misdemeanor. The experiment, dubbed 'Project X, involves studying the effects of radiation on chimpanzees to evaluate potential responses in humans. Garrett's role is to train these chimpanzees, using flight simulators, to carry out specific tasks in a nuclear war scenario.

Matthew Broderick effortlessly characterizes Jimmy Garrett and brings a natural charm to the role, endearing the audience, making them root for him, despite his initial insubordinate tendencies. Broderick's portrayal of a pilot turned primate trainer is authentic and astounding, where the audience sees his initial nonchalant interest in the project progressively evolve into a deeper concern for the chimpanzees involved.

One of the chimpanzees, named Virgil, who has been taught sign language by graduate student Teri MacDonald (Helen Hunt), catches Garrett's special attention. Garrett and Virgil form a bond that transcends species barriers and drives the storyline down an unforeseen path, involving compassion, ethical implications, and unforeseen realities. Helen Hunt's short but crucial role is pivotal to this burgeoning relationship between man and ape. Her character is sincerely empathetic, passionate about her subjects, and becomes integral to the movie's plot development and emotional arc.

At first glance, Project X appears to be a military-centered film, but it gives way to a much deeper social, moral, and ethical commentary on human interactions with animals. It underscores the narrative with themes of animal rights and testing, scientific responsibility, cherished friendships, and the elongation of simple, direct disobedience to conspicuous defiance of questionable authority.

The third central character is Virgil, the chimpanzee, portrayed by an actual chimpanzee named Willie. His incorporation into the film adds a level of authenticity and rawness to the film's depiction of inter-species relationships. The nuanced performances, especially during silent scenes involving sign language communication, are absorbingly humane.

Of particular note are the stunning visuals and a gripping original score that complements the movie's tone. The military installation where most of the film is set serves as a dramatic backdrop, and at times, an ominous presence. The implicit danger imminent in the military experiment and the unwitting participation of the chimpanzees is visually and aurally conveyed to the audience, making them part of the unsettling scenario.

Despite the serious themes, Project X also manages to infuse a touch of humor, drama, and suspense, making it a versatile piece of cinema. The film adeptly weaves these multiple themes together, culminating in a pulsating climax that holds the viewer on edge, questioning the eventual fate of the protagonists and their mission.

The movie subtly nudges its audience to ruminate on the blurred boundaries between human and animal sentience and ethics attached to scientific experimentation. With an emotionally charged narrative and laudable performances, Project X compellingly argues for compassion and understanding beyond our own species.

Project X is a must-watch movie for lovers of plot-driven suspense dramas, and it is particularly appealing for those who appreciate multifaceted narratives that prompt profound discussions about human responsibilities, animal rights, and the often-overlooked emotional complexity of non-human beings. This absorbing film, with its gripping narrative and strong performances, is certainly worth your time.