The Method 2007

In the bustling city of Madrid, seven individuals converge for a job interview amid the backdrop of a chaotic public protest against the IMF-World Bank Summit, which seeks to enforce a globalization agenda concerning workers’ unions. As the candidates settle into a corporate meeting room high above the turmoil, tensions rise when one candidate boldly refuses to continue filling out the seemingly endless stream of identical paperwork. This act of defiance ignites skepticism among the group regarding the legitimacy of the so-called Grönholm Method, a controversial process purportedly designed to identify the most suitable candidate for the job.

The atmosphere becomes increasingly tense as computers in the room flash different messages to each character, signifying when someone is eliminated from the competitive process, accompanied by a stark “no signal” warning on the screens. The group is tasked with a pressing dilemma: to uncover who among them is a traitor, secretly working for the corporation. Among the candidates, Carlos (Eduardo Noriega) and Nieves (Najwa Nimri) reveal their prior romantic history, creating a trust bond that allows them to vouch for each other’s character. After a heated discussion, the group votes to oust Enrique (Ernesto Alterio), though the computer remains cryptically silent on whether they have chosen correctly.

As the interview progresses, the candidates find themselves needing to elect a leader, and Julio (Carmelo Gómez) is chosen. A newspaper clipping highlighting his expose on his former employer’s illegal chemical dumping adds complexity to his candidacy. The group now faces an ethical dilemma: should they grant Julio a second chance? After a dramatic vote, Ana (Adriana Ozores) ultimately decides to expel Julio, adding to the rising tension.

The scenario shifts dramatically as they are asked to envision a post-apocalyptic survival situation, where only the strongest survive, vying for acceptance within a bunker. In a bizarre proposition, Nieves offers to bear children for all the men present, while Carlos suggests he can entertain with stories. Ultimately, Ana is harshly dismissed, deemed too old and undesirable for companionship. Her expulsion becomes a poignant commentary on gender biases as she reflects on her previous treatment of Julio.

During a brief intermission, Montse (Natalia Verbeke), the receptionist, brings refreshments, shedding light on the violent demonstrations occurring outside. In a moment of desperation, Ricardo (Pablo Echarri) confides in Enrique about his past as a union leader in Argentina, revealing deep-seated fears about corporate retribution. The tension mounts when Montse pressures Enrique to divulge any secrets he may have about Ricardo, leading to a dramatic confrontation. Eventually, Ricardo admits his true role as a psychologist for the company, leaving Enrique grappling with the implications of his betrayal.

The break introduces a moment of levity, as the candidates engage in a comedic shirt exchange involving Fernando, Carlos, and Nieves, which inadvertently causes chaos and frustration among the group. In lighthearted fashion, Ricardo suggests a game that requires them to embody different nationalities, leading to escalating insults and stress, particularly for Fernando, who struggles to keep up.

As the selections narrow, Ricardo advises Carlos to manipulate Nieves into quitting, fostering an intense flirtation between the two. They ponder their past romance and contemplate a second chance at their relationship, ultimately deciding to abandon the cutthroat job competition together. However, the internal conflict escalates when Nieves hesitates at the door: should she close it and secure the job, or follow her heart? In a climactic moment, she opts for love, stepping into the uncertain future with Carlos. Conversely, Carlos faces his own crossroad, torn between his desire for the position and his connection to Nieves, but ultimately decides to return to the meeting room, achieving victory in the ruthless game.

As Nieves steps outside, she is met with the desolate aftermath of the demonstrations, a stark contrast to the choices they made inside. Alone and reflective, she begins her journey home, leaving the exhilarating yet harrowing experience behind her.