Among feature films, the phrase "based on true events" often brings to mind sentimental dramas or lurid tales ripped from the headlines. So outlandish and disturbing is the backstory to Craig Zobel's sophomore feature Compliance, however, that it's easy to wish that it were entirely fictional. This is dark, edgy material inspired walkouts and shouting matches at the Sundance Film Festival premiere leaving the cast and crew defending the film during a post-screening Q&A. Yet with careful handling and the filmmakers' passionate support, Compliance is so eerily attuned to current cultural issues that a specialized berth is not unlikely.

The story follows Becky and Sandra, who aren't the best of friends. Sandra is a middle-aged manager at a fast-food restaurant; Becky is a teenaged counter girl who really needs the job. One stressful day — too many customers and too little bacon — a police officer calls, accusing Becky of stealing money from a customer's purse, which she vehemently denies. Sandra, overwhelmed by her managerial responsibilities, complies with the officer's orders to detain Becky. This choice begins a nightmare that tragically blurs the lines between expedience and prudence, legality and reason. 

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