Netflix fans claim 'mind bending' sci-fi thriller is 'so painful' to watch

One of Netflix's most popular films right now is a 'mind bending' sci-fi thriller that fans say is 'so painful' to watch.

The movie titled Brick was only just added to the streamer earlier in the week. After just a couple of days it has already become one of the most watched films among subscribers.

At the time of writing, the German produced movie is currently third in the top ten films among UK users. It sits just behind anime hit K Pop Demon Hunters and documentary Trainwreck The Real Project X.

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According to the synopsis provided by Netflix, the film's story picks up when a mysterious brick wall encloses a couple's apartment building overnight. Tim and Olivia must unite with their wary neighbours to get out alive.

Despite its immediate popularity on the major streaming platform, its critical reception has been considerably mixed. It has only managed to register a score of 31% on Rotten Tomatoes.

One review addressed the fact the film was compared to cult classic Cube, when the first trailer was released. That film saw a group of strangers wake up in a strange giant cube all armed with deadly traps.

The critic claimed: "It seems clear that Brick has more in common with a bottom-tier Black Mirror episode than it does a true sci-fi puzzle-box movie like Cube . It does a lot of little things competently, but doesn't do any one thing exceedingly well, leaving it feeling like a genre exercise in search of a story worth telling."

One fan had a more damning verdict as they posted: "Watching this was actually painful.. Holy its so bad.. and the actors are terrible... Do not watch.. you will regret it."

However, there are viewers who actually enjoyed and recommend the title. One such person suggested: "A pretty amazing and exciting contained thriller with a sci-fi twist. The ensemble and the camera work sticks out, with the plot taken twists you don´t see coming. Fun and cool with that little German hint of weirdness!"

Another added: "This movie was so amazing. Great cast, great acting. I had no clue what was going to happen next. It is Escape Room on steroids. Great movie, great story, great cast, great direction."

Someone else commented: "Netflix's German sci-fi chiller imprisons a couple in a high-rise overtaken by an ominous black barrier. The director masterfully evokes claustrophobia through tight shots and escalating dread, turning everyday spaces into nightmares."

They continued: The lead stars shine with raw vulnerability, their relationship strains amplifying the horror. The film's exploration of isolation and survival resonates, though some twists veer into familiarity. Pacing keeps viewers hooked, building to a poignant climax. A smart, contained thriller that punches above its weight, Brick is a worthy addition to Netflix's genre lineup."

Brick is streaming on Netflix.