​FILMS

it follows

2015 review number 98:

It Follows: (Horror/Thriller): 77 out of 100: Highly original and not your average horror/thriller relying on a multitude of jump scares, It Follows is a haunting supernatural film written and directed by David Robert Mitchell, this being his sophomore effort.

 

Jay (Maika Monroe) has a sexual encounter with Paul (Keir Gilchrist) and discovers that supernatural beings she can only see are following her. Paul later tells her that these entities can usually be passed on if one engages in sex with another person. Supported by her sister and friends including Greg (Daniel Zovatto), Jay must somehow defeat the demons and ensure that she and her friends are not harmed in any way.

 

Mitchell has crafted a thinking person's horror film. This might frustrate some viewers as the pacing is slow at times. The build up in suspense though can be attributed to this slow but deliberate pacing. He has framed many images which make full use of the wide screen and his slow camera movements allow the viewer to become immersed in the setting. It is an atmospheric piece which provides numerous haunting images.

 

The cast of unknowns brilliantly depict the fear and uncertainty their characters experience. You actually feel for them which is most unlike many horror movies where the characters are disposable. Monroe especially is terrific in acting with her eyes. Who said horror movies are all about the female protagonist constantly screaming?  There are some jump scares that the characters react to, but thankfully not too many jump scares which helps elevate this production above the standard horror film.

 

A definite highlight of the movie is the haunting music score which mainly comprises synthesizers. It's not the usual screeching violin music that accompanies most horror movies. The steady but assured tunes complement the visuals and suitably promote the tension.

 

Another godsend is the limited use of visual effects. Some horror movies appear frantic and chaotic due to their overindulgence in CGI. It's satisfying to see a horror movie not relying on special effects to haunt its audience. Compare this with the recent remake of Poltergeist that was filled with CGI and you will see which of the two is scarier.

 

You do have to be in the right frame of mind to see this original horror story because it's unlike most horror movies of today. Character development actually takes place in this indie production. Be prepared for some slow sequences that build the tension and you will be duly rewarded.

 

Starring Maika Monroe, Keir Gilchrist and Daniel Zovatto
(100 minutes)

Parental advice: Nudity, sex scenes, sexual references, adult themes, violence and coarse language

Additional scene during or after credits: No

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QX38jXwnRAM (Movie trailer)

(Reviewed on Monday 6th July, 2015)

 

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