Movie Review: It Follows (2014)
It Follows is a supernatural horror film released in 2014, directed by David Robert Mitchell. The film revolves around a young girl named Jay Height, who, after a seemingly innocuous sexual encounter, finds herself plagued by a relentless and eerie entity. This unseen force is passed on to her in a way that mirrors the fears associated with sexually transmitted diseases, embodying the horror of more than just physical intimacy. What ensues is a nightmarish journey where Jay, played by Maika Monroe, must navigate a world where she is pursued by this enigmatic being, which can appear in various forms—often taking the shape of people she knows or strangers nearby—all the while seeking to claim her.
The film’s setting in a quintessentially suburban landscape heightens the tension, as Jay and her friends strive to find a way to escape this curse. They become embroiled in a frantic game of cat and mouse as they attempt to outsmart the entity, culminating in chilling sequences that evoke a palpable sense of dread.
Synopsis
The story begins with the teenager Jay Height (Maika Monroe), who goes on a date with a boy named Hugh (Jake Weary). After a romantic outing, Hugh reveals an unsettling truth: he has transferred a supernatural curse to her through a sexual encounter. He explains that the being will take the form of various individuals, slowly pursuing her with the sole intention of harming her unless she passes the curse on to someone else. Once Hugh disappears from the picture, Jay is left alone to confront her terrifying fate, aided only by her friends, including energetic Greg (Daniel Zovatto) and supportive friends Yara (Olivia Luccardi) and Kelly (Lili Sepe).
As the entity begins to stalk Jay, she grapples with paranoia and fear, knowing that it could take the form of anyone and is perpetually approaching her. The film follows her desperate attempts to evade the entity while also exploring the complexities of adolescence, relationships, and the consequences of one’s actions. It Follows is more than just a horror film; it is a meditation on youth, sexuality, and the lingering spectres of one’s past.
Cast
- Maika Monroe as Jay Height
- Keir Gilchrist as Paul
- Olivia Luccardi as Yara
- Lili Sepe as Kelly
- Daniel Zovatto as Greg
- Jake Weary as Hugh
- Monica R. D. Lemus as a girl at the pool
- Bernie McInerney as the old man
- Nicky Katt as a police officer
- Catherine B. Stuart as a woman in the hallway
Thematic Analysis
It Follows taps into a range of deep-seated fears, primarily around the themes of adolescence and the loss of innocence. By personifying these fears in the form of a sexual curse, the film raises questions about the consequences of sexual liberation and the disquiet that often accompanies it. The ambiguity of the entity adds to the film’s chilling quality; it represents not only the anxiety surrounding sexual encounters but also the physical and emotional weights that come with growing up.
The film employs retro aesthetics that contribute to its unsettling atmosphere. The cinematography by Mike Gioulakis is notable; it captures the suburban setting in a hauntingly beautiful light, juxtaposing the serene landscapes with the impending horror that lurks ahead. The inherent disquiet of the environments echoes the internal turmoil experienced by Jay and her friends. The possession of a relatable yet harrowing experience enhances the film’s tension, making the audience feel Jay’s dread on a visceral level.
Furthermore, It Follows cleverly plays with the conventions of horror films; rather than relying on jump scares, it often uses slow, calculated reveals and suspenseful moments. The mundane setting makes the threat feel real and omnipresent. The minimalistic score by Disasterpeace, characterised by synthesiser sounds reminiscent of 1980s horror, further amplifies the eeriness of the film.
Character Development and Performances
The character of Jay Height is the emotional core of the film. Maika Monroe delivers a nuanced performance that captures the fragility and determination of her character. From a carefree youth to a distressed individual battling an incomprehensible force, Monroe’s portrayal evokes empathy and fear in equal measure. Her interactions with her friends underline the themes of loyalty and shared trauma, as they rally to protect her while subtly embodying their own fears and insecurities.
Keir Gilchrist as Paul provides a counterpoint to Jay’s struggles; he represents the longing and unrequited love that often flares during adolescence. His character’s desperation to help Jay also highlights the complexities of platonic relationships in the backdrop of existential crises.
Daniel Zovatto’s performance as Greg is equally compelling, encapsulating the feelings of helplessness and protectiveness that arise when faced with such an unfathomable threat. The supporting cast, including Olivia Luccardi and Lili Sepe, all contribute to the film’s authenticity, portraying friendships that are both supportive yet conflicted.
Conclusion
In conclusion, It Follows is a refreshing and haunting addition to the horror genre, skillfully using supernatural elements to explore deeper themes of adolescence, sexuality, and the fear of the irreversible consequences of our actions. With its unique premise, strong performances, and unsettling atmosphere, the film resonates on multiple levels, remaining both terrifying and thought-provoking. David Robert Mitchell has crafted a masterful work that elevates itself above conventional horror, leaving an indelible mark on the viewer. While it may not cater to all tastes—particularly those seeking straightforward thrills—its artistic direction and thematic depth set it apart as an innovative cinematic experience.
Score: 9/10