It Follows

It Follows presents a unique twist on the horror genre with its supernatural force that stalks its victims. But does it manage to deliver more than just a clever concept?

A Stalker in the Shadows

The film centers on Jay Height, played by Maika Monroe, who finds herself pursued by an unseen, malevolent entity after a seemingly innocuous sexual encounter. As Jay's friends rally around her, they navigate a disorienting reality where trust erodes and paranoia grows. The entity can take on different forms, making it an ever-present threat. Set against the backdrop of a hauntingly empty Detroit, the film grapples with themes of intimacy, fear, and the irrepressible nature of responsibility. However, while the concept is intriguing, the execution sometimes leaves the narrative feeling thin, leading to moments that could have used more depth.

Characters That Miss the Mark

Maika Monroe's portrayal of Jay is genuinely engaging, capturing the character's fear and vulnerability as the stakes rise. However, other characters often feel underdeveloped, particularly Keir Gilchrist's Paul. His role has potential, but he often fades into the background, lacking the depth required to evoke empathy. While the film boasts a solid performance from Monroe, the supporting cast, including Olivia Luccardi and Daniel Zovatto, fail to make a lasting impact. This unevenness makes it hard to fully invest in Jay's plight, as the stakes seem diluted by the lack of character development around her.

Atmospheric Yet Uneven

David Robert Mitchell employs an atmospheric directing style that enhances the film's eerie tone. The cinematography, combined with a minimalist score, effectively builds tension and unease, allowing viewers to feel the weight of Jay's predicament. However, the pacing suffers; moments of silence can stretch too long, leading to a disjointed viewing experience. The visuals are striking, with a nostalgic quality that evokes past horrors, yet they sometimes overshadow the narrative flow. The editing choices, while purposeful, can frustrate as they stall the momentum at critical points.

Tension with Lulls

Watching It Follows is a mixed experience. The concept is intriguing, and the atmosphere is palpable, but the film's pacing can lead to moments of boredom. There are stretches where the tension feels drawn out unnecessarily, and some sequences lack payoff. The emotional weight is largely carried by Monroe's performance, but the film struggles to maintain consistent engagement. When it works, it’s affecting, but there are points where the film meanders, leaving audiences feeling restless rather than riveted.