It’s encouraging to witness works that champion individuality at a time when expressing independence can feel risky. Writer-director Yûta Shimotsu's second film is an unusual but enjoyable, thoughtful exploration of the dangers inherent in blindly following tradition. In Japan, where adhering to cultural and social expectations carries significant weight, those who strive for personal autonomy often face disapproval and isolation, potentially encountering verbal abuse, physical threats, and intense bullying – including through online platforms. This is what Ai (Anna Yamada) experiences; a quiet but perceptive high school student whose classmates suddenly begin building human pyramids. Their strange behavior quickly gains the approval of the school administration, presented as a sign of being a valuable member of society. But to what end? These pointless actions then spread throughout Japanese culture, with authorities enthusiastically promoting participation. Unlike those around her, Ai resists, uncertain about the activity’s mysterious purpose. She finds support in one of her classmates, Yu (Yuzu Aoki), who recognizes the importance of staying true to oneself despite external pressure and isn't afraid to question what's happening. The film ultimately serves as a commentary on unquestioned group mentality, a lesson applicable not only to Japan but to any society that attempts to enforce conformity, regardless of how illogical it appears. The filmmaker effectively conveys this through a variety of quirky jokes that become increasingly hilarious as the story unfolds, particularly when previously stable people start behaving like robots or zombies. It’s true that the film occasionally loses focus and can feel somewhat unsubtle in its message, but it's still a relevant and modern addition to similar absurdist works, such as Eugène Ionesco’s play (and 1973 film adaptation) *Rhinoceros* (1959). The movie also demonstrates, through several scenes involving graphic (though not exploitative) violence – viewers should be aware – the observation of Caroline Myss, who has noted that people attempting to assert themselves against a powerful collective are sometimes “shot on sight” for simply being themselves. That’s a valuable perspective in today's world, and films like "New Group" thankfully help reinforce this idea when it’s needed most.

Source on TMDB