The sequel season is upon us, heralding the return of several beloved films. However, many of these sequels fall short of capturing the essence and allure of their originals. Netflix’s Spanish dystopian thriller, The Platform, is a case in point. The original, introduced during the pandemic, unveiled a grim yet intriguing world within a “Vertical Self-Management Center,” where inhabitants were at the mercy of a descending food platform. As the platform journeyed from the top to the bottom floors, its bounty of provisions diminished, leading to inevitable chaos and desperation. Now, The Platform 2 has arrived, aiming to expand upon the mythology of this dire world.
The opening of The Platform 2 is stark and abrupt. Unlike the typical sequel strategy that aims to remind audiences of previous plotlines while they settle into their theater seats, this film plunges viewers right back into the dystopian abyss. A semblance of order is now in place: each inmate selects a preferred meal, and they’re expected to consume only their selected dish unless a consensual swap occurs. Predictably, not everyone adheres to these new rules, prompting a series of events that challenge the very foundation of the system.
In its quest to delve deeper into the original film’s lore, The Platform 2 retains key elements that distinguish the franchise. The narrative unfolds at a rapid pace, echoing the urgency of its predecessor and helping to mitigate the monotony of a confined setting shared by a limited cast of characters. The sequel maintains the initial film’s vigorous use of symbolism, which is further amplified this time around. It paints a vivid picture of societal systems collapsing when individuals defy established norms. The protagonists, Perempuan (Milena Smit) and Zamiatin (Hovik Keuchkerian), are reluctant witnesses drawn into the fray — a microcosm of society’s larger struggles. Their journey leads them to learn about “the anointed ones,” individuals who have encountered the mysterious Master, enforcing laws purportedly to maintain an equitable food distribution.
The sequel delves headfirst into the poignant themes of capitalism, religion, and societal hierarchy that the franchise is known for. It boldly incorporates religious allegory, with the Master often referred to as a messiah figure.
. One particularly striking scene depicts protagonist Perempuan experiencing a vision reminiscent of The Last Supper. Even the tower’s structure — 333 levels with two inmates on each — subtly nods to religious symbolism, echoing the notorious number 666.
The narrative arc of Perempuan is particularly compelling. Her transformation from a passive observer to a zealous enforcer and ultimately a revolutionary exemplifies where the film excels. Intriguing details, such as her cellmate discussing imaginary numbers only to become her imaginary friend, add layers to the story — much like the first film. The film artfully ties her journey inside this restrictive environment to her life beyond it, bridging reality with metaphorical art.
However, The Platform 2 struggles to sustain engagement. It often fails to capitalize on its most poignant moments. The fleeting presence of supporting characters hampers the audience’s ability to connect emotionally with the story. Perempuan and Zamiatin’s experiences are more symbolic fish in this allegorical sea than relatable stories. Unlike Goreng from the first outing, these characters lack a humanizing depth that makes their struggles palpable. The motivations of The Platform 2’s supposed keepers of order, resorting to violence to maintain balance, come across as shallow compared to the psychological exploration that made the first film so compelling.
In the crowded world of sequels, The Platform 2 grapples with the burden of living up to its forebear. Much like the scarce resources descending the tower’s levels, the reasons for this film’s existence are disappointingly sparse. English dubbing further detracts from an authentic experience, where The Platform felt like a sumptuous feast offering a morsel for every viewer. This sequel leaves audiences with the faint hunger that only a set meal can.
The Platform 2 is now available for streaming on Netflix.
