A workplace romance is tested when one of them gets a promotion. As tensions rise, jealousy and insecurities come to a head, exposing the darkness within the passionate couple. The feature debut of writer and director Chloe Domont, Fair Play is a seductive thriller that meticulously explores corporate greed and gender politics.
Emily (Phoebe Dynevor) and Luke (Alden Ehrenreich) are an infatuated young couple, seemingly perfect and hitting a wonderful relationship milestone. But all that remains within the walls of their apartment. Once the two enter their corporate financial job, they’re simply coworkers, as it goes against company policy to date.
It’s a cutthroat firm, and Emily is thrilled to hear whisperings that Luke is next up for a promotion. But when the big boss invites her to meet for a drink, Emily discovers she’s the one moving up.
At first, Luke seems proud of her. But his jealousy begins to show, taking a toll on their relationship. And soon, both their careers will be on the line as they hit a breaking point.
Billed as an erotic psychological thriller, Fair Play feels reminiscent of the edgy films of the 90s, like Eyes Wide Shut and Basic Instinct. But that sensuality dwindles as the film exposes how competition and financial greed can insidiously work their way in.
Domont crafts something so entangled as we journey through how sex, money, and power can affect two individuals, destroying a seemingly perfect reality. But beyond that, the film plays with your opinion of the two leads, as they both handle the situation in different ways — neither perfect, but one going too far.
And it knows how to build it up for an edge-of-your-seat experience, only bringing things fully into focus when the stress hits a precipice. It even toys with you until the final, gripping minutes.
Fair Play is a film that becomes more enjoyable the longer you sit with it. It initially draws you in with its alluring concept, but ultimately delivers something deep and astute.
It also offers a really smart look into how casual misogyny can impact women in the workplace and their relationships, especially in an industry so male-driven. Domont maneuvers Emily through many uncomfortable scenarios that are a sad truth for many. And for her part, Dynevor steers through it all with a precise performance.
Fair Play is now streaming on Netflix
Jordy Reviews It 
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