
It is a subject that has generated controversy over the years, with people evenly divided about its usage. There have been several films (Protocol-7) that have tried to deal with the intricacies of this debate, seeking to present some light and responsibility.
One such film is “Protocol 7” that has been directed by Andrew Wakefield who also shares the screenwriting duties with Terry Rossio. The movie is based on a true story and is a drama thriller, which is based on a deep cover employee of Merck Pharmaceuticals who was involved in fraud of the company.
The plot is centered on a small-town attorney Lexi whose seemingly perfect life turns out to be horrifying after discovering his adopted son is showing serious delay in his child development. As Lexi probes more into the issue and demands answers, the web of lies surrounding the corporation starts to unfold. As a result, her vendetta for justice takes a toll on her career but, at the same time, sets her on the mysterious journey of justice.
After years of infertility, Lexi G. Whittle and her husband wished to have a child and finally decided to look for one to adopt. He was later diagnosed with autism, a disease that his mother believes is due to the MMR vaccine he was given.
While investigating, Lexi finds Dr. Jay (Matthew Marsden), who used to work at the aforementioned corporation, now turns into an insider and critic of the company’s wrongdoings. He also puts her in touch with Steve (Josh Murray), who is another virologist employed by the firm and has pledged to expose the fraud underlying the MMR vaccine test results. They then pour over many years of records to find the necessary evidence to substantiate a case of fraud against the company.
In an interview, Rachel G. Whittle describes Lexi Koprowski, a divorce attorney who quite unexpectedly is intrigued by corporate fraud issues. As a performance, it is decent and the contours are complemented by some moments of emotional splendor. There is also a video that helps bring this story closer to home entitled ‘Protocol 7’, it comes across as unconvincing. It is unclear how many contexts had to be lost to create this film.
As the Errani employee, Eric portrays the most unique character as a drug company. It’s no surprise that Roberts is the best actor in this picture as a whole. Although he does not feature a lot in the film, he excels at his role as a ruthless leader who gently urges his scientists to cook the results of their tests. He is able to execute his role in a correct and realistic manner which adds to the story.
In place of his character in the movie, Josh Murray as Steve has a major role but does not have the strongest presence. It could have been a subtle and somewhat ironic decision to illustrate the character’s complex internal landscape but unfortunately as an Actress, he does not quite play the character convincingly.
Pharmageddon is a unique film during its exposition where Lexi and Dr. Jay go on a quest to unravel the secrets behind a pharma company. The plot employs a very unorthodox use of structure as it makes use of flashbacks however one can say it is easier to comprehend as the story progresses. The cinematographic work displayed in this picture lacks any innovative effects that would aid in elevating the enjoyment aspect of “watching” a film, making it appear more like a television movie rather than something you would expect to watch in a theater. But the colors and brightness of the picture are quite good.
The movie I’ve seen has some scenes with Lexi taking a few testimonies and it provides a flashback of what was already presented in the 3rd act. The emotional intensity of the scene can be called moderately effective to being high on suspense but there’s a limit to which the viewer is thrilled or excited. But what viewers are shown is what can be described as conversations, questions, comments and answers. The portrayal in the movie attempts to convey emotions such as concern associated with Merck’s Lexi’s smile or her stare but there is no such ‘show’ or ‘tell’ in the film about Merck Pharmaceuticals and their suit issues.
‘The audience says: ‘This film was made for you, so never shy away from confronting these issues so that you can have the breads mind to make up your opinions,’ Wells endeavored to explain in a rather mild tone. At the same time, the audience is encouraged to look into the controversial topic of safety of vaccines and corporate interest involvement.
Additionally, do not forget that in case you want to watch a light-hearted comedy filled with cool sci-fi action, ‘Protocol 7’ may not be a great fit for you. There is a big chance you see it as a slow-paced exploration of a heated conflict of a few people trying to expose a company’s flaws to pay back some owed justice.
While assessing the movie, I would give a score of 5/10. There are critical issues that the movie addresses in a commendable manner, however, there is no spine-tingling aspect to the film that would keep the audience on the edge of their seats.
For more movies like “Protocol-7” visit on 123movies