THE LINE
Starring: Alex Wolff, Austin Abrams, Bo Mitchell, Halle Bailey, Lewis Pullman, Angus Cloud, Scoot McNairy, and John Malkovich
Director: Ethan Berger
KATIE
The Line is a tense, darkly funny thriller exploring the toxicity and violence that plagues fraternity culture. Alex Wolff is incredible in the lead role, driving the suspense that assured me something horrible was waiting around the corner. Halle Bailey’s character is compelling but underdeveloped, and I was relieved she was kept at a safe distance from the dangerous toxicity of the frat house. The film reveals how these men perform “masculinity” exclusively for other men in a way that is undeniably homoerotic (whilst screaming homophobic slurs), and the ending shows how these issues will continue to be perpetuated by those it victimises.
PRESTON
The most interesting components of The Line are the power dynamics within the fraternity itself and the unfair privilege of the wealthy. The toxic masculinity commentary is sure to resonate with some, but is also a bit tiresome with the random presence of Halle Bailey adding little to the primary plot, only serving to hammer home the portrayal that all fraternity members are chauvinistic, racist degenerates. Still, Alex Wolff and Austin Abrams are fantastic. It's an entertaining watch, even if predictable, that will probably be even more so for someone less cynical.
QUENTIN
I’m sure for some people, The Line is a terrific movie that gives new insight into toxic masculinity and the rich-boy fraternity lifestyle. However, I found all these characters to be so damn annoying (Mitch (Bo Mitchell), especially) that I didn’t enjoy spending any time with them, whatsoever. Maybe that’s the point, but even Tom (Alex Wolff), the reflective protagonist who slowly understands Greek Life isn’t all it’s cracked up to be, is an unlikable douchebro. On top of that, the story goes exactly where you’d expect it to, so there are no surprises. This dark spin on Animal House, colored with Whiplash, just wasn’t for me.
PAIGE
The Line is an unfiltered look at toxic fraternity culture that, despite its lack of subtlety and originality, is nevertheless a gripping drama. Although the film should have explored some of the aspects it touches on more thoroughly, Ethan Berger makes a strong directorial debut. He has assembled a solid ensemble, giving Alex Wolff the opportunity to really shine and show his range. Overall, The Line offers a convincing glimpse at frat life, even though it might not bring anything new to the table.
