The Shape of Things 2003

Adam is a student majoring in English Literature at Mercy College, a fictional institution in the Midwest, yearning for excitement beyond his mundane routine of classes and studying. His life takes a drastic turn when he unexpectedly meets Evelyn, a captivating graduate art student, at the local museum where he is employed. This chance encounter fills Adam, the socially awkward and nerdy student, with flattery when Evelyn expresses interest in him.

Under her influence, Adam embarks on a new lifestyle that includes a rigorous exercise regimen, a healthier diet, and the switch from glasses to contact lenses. These initial transformations earn him praise from his friend Phillip and his girlfriend Jenny. However, as time progresses, Evelyn persuades Adam to undergo plastic surgery and convinces him to sever ties with Phillip, Jenny, and all his previous friendships, asserting that she is his only true friend.

As their relationship deepens, Adam decides to propose to Evelyn, who readily accepts. But the climax reveals a shocking truth: Adam has unknowingly been a part of Evelyn’s Master of Fine Arts thesis project. Throughout the film, Evelyn refers to her project involving the instruction to “change the world,” ultimately deciding to reshape “someone’s world”—specifically, Adam’s. She has been “sculpting” him into a more desirable version of himself.

Evelyn’s true nature surfaces when she unveils Adam to an audience of students and faculty, branding him her “creation,” which leaves him deeply embarrassed. It becomes evident that her affection for him has been insincere; their romantic moments were merely documentation for her project. At the opening of her gallery, Evelyn announces to a live audience that she will not marry Adam, revealing that the engagement ring was merely part of her art exhibit.

Devastated and humiliated, Adam confronts Evelyn, seeking an explanation for her betrayal. With chilling indifference, she tells him he should be thankful to her for making him more appealing and interesting in the societal landscape. Finally realizing the true colors of the manipulative Evelyn, Adam rejects her. Evelyn coldly remarks that there was never a relationship to end.

In the poignant conclusion, a heartbroken Adam finds himself alone amidst the remnants of his previous life. His former friends, Philip and Jenny, also condemn him, refusing to forgive his abandonment. In a moment of introspection, he views a segment of a camcorder tape from earlier in the film, replaying the moment when Evelyn whispered what she called the singular truth of their relationship. The film concludes with Adam continuously rewind, listening to her words, trapped in the echoes of what was once a false promise.