The Assessment

In the near future, society faces environmental collapse and resource scarcity, leading to stringent regulations surrounding parenthood. Prospective parents must undergo a rigorous seven-day assessment to evaluate their ability to raise a child in this new world.

Mia, a dedicated botanist, and her husband Aaryan, who designs virtual reality pets, live in a technologically advanced home surrounded by a protective dome. They are eager to have a child, longing for a family in the face of societal restrictions.

Virginia, a stoic government-appointed assessor, arrives at Mia and Aaryan's home to conduct their evaluation. She informs them that she will stay with them for the next week, aware that their future as parents hangs in the balance.

Virginia initiates a series of unconventional tests designed to mimic parenting scenarios. These tests reveal underlying insecurities and unresolved conflicts between Mia and Aaryan, leading to heightened emotional vulnerability.

Virginia orchestrates a dinner party, inviting neighbors and colleagues to observe the couple's social interactions. The evening becomes awkward, with revealing conversations exposing Mia and Aaryan's differing coping mechanisms and intensifying tensions.

Mia receives a distressing call about her sister's illness, prompting Virginia to allow her to visit the hospital until 6 AM. Unbeknownst to Mia, the call was a mixup, and Virginia's intentions are much darker.

While Mia is away, Virginia takes advantage of the situation and sexually assaults Aaryan, insisting it remains a secret and is part of the assessment. The betrayal leaves Aaryan confused and conflicted about his allegiances.

The next morning, Virginia sets fire to Mia's beloved greenhouse, almost causing her own demise. While saving Virginia, Mia’s horror at the event showcases the unraveling of their already strained circumstances.

Without explanation, Virginia abruptly declares that Mia and Aaryan have failed the assessment. In a moment of vulnerability, Aaryan confesses to sleeping with Virginia, shattering the remnants of trust between him and Mia.

In an attempt to reconcile with Mia, Aaryan creates a simulated baby, hoping to bridge the gap created by betrayal. However, Mia rejects the simulation, realizing it cannot replace their lost connection or her desire for a real child.

Mia tracks down Virginia to uncover shocking truths: there have been no successful applications for parenthood in six years. Virginia reveals she was offered a child to replace her deceased daughter but had to fail all couples to secure it.

After the confrontation, Virginia is assigned to assess another couple but, overwhelmed by her role and the systemic failures, decides to take her own life. This tragic end highlights the psychological burdens imposed by the oppressive regime.

Disillusioned with the oppressive nature of their society, Mia resolves to leave her sheltered life behind. She seeks refuge in the Old World, where her mother, a dissenter against state policies, had been exiled for her beliefs.

As Mia departs, Aaryan turns to technology, creating simulated versions of both a child growing up and a digital version of Mia. This serves as a coping mechanism for his loss but emphasizes his inability to connect with reality.