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Shock Value

Shock Value

Confined to a 1960s testing room, a man assigned the name of "Teacher" by an unseen voice must conduct a tutoring session with a distant "Student." As the lesson unfolds, their cooperation strains — and a sinister truth surfaces through a series of shocking questions and irreversible choices.

Directed by Sam Veeramachaneni

Cast

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Crew

Director
  • Sam Veeramachaneni
Writer
  • Sam Veeramachaneni

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Thematic Analysis

As a dramatic work, Shock Value examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.

Director Sam Veeramachaneni brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.

Released in 2025, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.

Did You Know?

  • The production of Shock Value took approximately 14 months from pre-production to final cut.
  • With a budget of $0.0 million, the film represented a significant investment in bringing this story to the screen.
  • The final cut of the film runs for 25 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 72 minutes long.
  • Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
  • The costume department created over 168 unique costume pieces for the production.
  • The musical score contains over 72 unique compositions.

Historical Context

  • In 2025, when this film is released:
  • Streaming platforms had largely replaced traditional cinema and television models.
  • The COVID-19 pandemic transformed global health, economics, and social interaction.
  • Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.

How This Film Stands Out

While Shock Value shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.

Unlike A Yard of Jackals, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Shock Value offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.

While films like Wanted and Psycho explore similar territory, Shock Value stands apart through its deeper exploration of its central themes and more complex characterization.

This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.

Details

  • Release Date: May 29, 2025
  • Runtime: 25m
  • Budget: $5,000

Where to Watch

History Vault

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