(4/5 Snakes)
By Oliver Copeland –
Jane Schoenbrun’s “I Saw the TV Glow” is a movie that takes you on quite a trip. Because of the unique feeling of this movie, along with its prominent underlying themes of transsexuality and embracing one’s identity, it’s safe to say it’s not for everyone. But that being said, I Saw the TV Glow’s nostalgic distinctiveness uplifts it and relays a meaningful story of self-identity and expression. While the film lacks some major elements of horror, it’s a fever dream that strives with the messages inside the film, and boasts a wildly entertaining cinematic experience.
The film follows two 1990s high school students, Owen (Justice Smith), and Maddy (Brigette Lundy-Paine), who bond over their shared love for the show “The Pink Opaque”, a show that mixes goosebumps with 90’s pink neon pop culture. After Maddy goes missing, the show suddenly ends, Owen is left alone and ultimately returns to his bland life. When Maddy suddenly returns 8 years later, Owen’s perspective on life starts to shatter, and he is left at a crossroads between embracing his identity or hiding it away, as the lines between reality and fiction begin to blur.
Being a transexual director, Schoenbrun’s message behind this film is a powerful and moving one, and touches on themes like abuse, sexuality, childhood, and identity, making it an especially moving piece that will leave a lasting impact on the viewer. The film boasts a haunting yet beautiful soundtrack from a variety of artists, including Phoebe Bridgers. But what is really the highlight of the film is the camerawork. Bright colors and phenomenal cinematography make this film quite visually entertaining, and in many ways carry the film. However, weak writing and somewhat bland performances definitely hold this film back from its full potential, along with its slow pace and some unnecessary plot points. But, even if the film is occasionally narratively lacking, it’s safe to say that the thought-provoking themes and the visual style of this film make it one to remember.
It’s not a monster story, or really akin to anything else in the horror genre, and barely scratches the surface of becoming a horror movie, instead, the film is essentially a far darker coming-of-age film. While the film undoubtedly does have some horror elements, if you’re looking for a good scare, I don’t recommend this film. Other reviewers feel the same, with Google reviews of the film 50/50 split between 5 stars and 1 star. Since the film is so “up for interpretation”, many viewers find it lacking sustenance and answers, while others call it a masterpiece. Regardless, this film’s uniqueness is where it both struggles and shines, at some points almost feeling too much a “quirky artsy student film” to be taken seriously (Skinamarink, for example).
Much like Schoenbrun, A24, the films production company, has never shied away from producing abstract and unique films, such as The Lighthouse and Hereditary. I Saw The TV Glow is no exception. The film is the embodiment of the indie-style filmmaking that A24 stands for, fitting perfectly in with the rest of their filmography.
Overall, I Saw The TV Glow is a film that is definitely a bit rough around the edges, but is still an incredibly meaningful and entertaining watch, and rewards the viewer with not only a hit of nostalgia and a bit of fear, but with a message that will stay with the viewer for days to come.
-Oliver Copeland
