This German title is based on a real psychological experiment that was carried out at Stanford University in 1971, using a group of male students. In the movie, 20 male participants are hired to play prisoners and guards in an elaborate experiment. The prisoners are incarcerated and have to follow apparently soft rules, while the guards are requested to retain order without the use of physical violence. Anyone is free to quit at any time, though they would be forfeiting payment. Initially, both groups are reserved and quite emphatic, but arguments quickly arise and the guards employ more and more drastic sanctions to help stamp their authority. Das Experiment is a gory, brutal and honest look at the innate depravity of man. The film is immensely well crafted, but offers little hope amidst all the extreme violence and psychological torment, making for frankly disturbing viewing.
