Written by Margeaux Winter
Modified & Updated: 17 May 2024
Reviewed by Jessica Corbett
If you’re a fan of horror movies, then there’s a high chance you’ve heard about the critically acclaimed film “It Follows”. This indie supernatural horror flick, released in 2014, quickly gained a cult following for its unique premise and chilling atmosphere. Directed by David Robert Mitchell, “It Follows” tells the story of Jay, a young woman who finds herself pursued by a malevolent supernatural entity after a sexual encounter.
With its blend of psychological terror and retro aesthetics, “It Follows” stands out as a true gem in the horror genre. In this article, we’ll delve into 30 fascinating facts about the movie, from its inspirations to its hidden symbols. So, grab your popcorn and brace yourself for a journey into the eerie world of “It Follows!
Key Takeaways:
- “It Follows” is a critically acclaimed indie horror film with a unique concept of a relentless supernatural entity. It’s known for its unsettling atmosphere, powerful performances, and thought-provoking themes, making it a modern horror classic.
- The movie subverts typical horror tropes, creating tension through suspense rather than jump scares. Its open-ended conclusion and influence on the genre have sparked discussions and inspired a new wave of atmospheric storytelling.
Indie Sensation:
It Follows” is an independent horror film directed by David Robert Mitchell and released in
Unique Concept:
The movie revolves around a supernatural entity that relentlessly pursues its victims, showing up in various forms.
Critical Acclaim:
“It Follows” received widespread critical acclaim and is often regarded as one of the best horror films in recent years.
Unsettling Atmosphere:
The film creates a constant feeling of unease and suspense with its atmospheric cinematography and haunting score.
Metaphorical Themes:
“It Follows” explores themes of sexual guilt, adolescence, and the fear of an unknown presence tracking one’s every move.
Slow-Burn Horror:
The movie relies on building tension and suspense rather than relying on jump scares, making it a unique and unsettling experience.
Iconic Opening Scene:
The film starts with an intense and suspenseful sequence that sets the tone for the rest of the movie.
Powerful Performances:
Maika Monroe delivers a strong performance as the protagonist, Jay, while the supporting cast adds depth to the story.
Retro Aesthetic:
The film’s visuals and score evoke a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of 80s horror films.
Symbolism:
The entity in the movie represents the lingering effects of past trauma, acting as a metaphorical reminder that one can never escape their past.
Minimalist Approach:
The film maintains a minimalist approach to storytelling, leaving the audience to fill in the gaps and speculate about the origins of the entity.
Unpredictable Narrative:
It Follows” keeps the audience on edge as it takes unexpected turns, making it difficult to guess what will happen next.
Tension-Filled Scenes:
The movie’s carefully crafted suspenseful scenes keep viewers on the edge of their seats, maintaining an intense atmosphere throughout.
Cult Following:
Since its release, “It Follows” has gained a dedicated fan base who appreciate its unique blend of horror and psychological elements.
Subtle World-Building:
The film hints at a larger supernatural world without explicitly explaining everything, leaving room for interpretation.
Reversal of Clichés:
“It Follows” subverts typical horror movie tropes, making it stand out in the genre.
Sound Design:
The movie’s sound design plays a crucial role in creating a sense of dread and suspense throughout the film.
Cinematic Homage:
David Robert Mitchell pays homage to classic horror films while adding his own unique twist.
Genre-Bending:
“It Follows” blends elements of horror, thriller, and coming-of-age genres, creating a truly memorable and original cinematic experience.
International Recognition:
The film gained popularity not only in the United States but also internationally, showcasing its universal appeal.
Hidden Details:
It Follows” is filled with subtle details that reward repeat viewings, allowing audiences to discover something new with each watch.
The Power of Fear:
The movie taps into the primal fear of being pursued, effectively playing on the audience’s deepest anxieties.
Ethereal Score:
The hauntingly beautiful score by Disasterpeace enhances the movie’s eerie atmosphere and immerses the viewer in its world.
Genre Revitalization:
“It Follows” is often credited with revitalizing the horror genre by offering a fresh and innovative take on traditional horror storytelling.
Exploration of Trust:
The film examines the notion of trust and how it can be shattered when faced with the inexplicable and the unknown.
Director’s Vision:
David Robert Mitchell’s unique vision and meticulous attention to detail can be seen throughout the film.
Psychological Impact:
“It Follows” lingers in the mind long after the credits roll, leaving a lasting impact on viewers.
Contemplation of Mortality:
The film prompts viewers to confront their own mortality and grapple with the idea of death constantly lurking in the shadows.
Ambiguous Ending:
The movie’s open-ended conclusion sparks debates and discussions among viewers, allowing for different interpretations.
Influence on the Genre:
It Follows” has influenced subsequent horror films, inspiring a new wave of atmospheric and thought-provoking storytelling in the genre.
Overall, “It Follows” is a truly captivating and unique horror film that continues to resonate with audiences today. With its unsettling atmosphere, powerful performances, and thought-provoking themes, it has solidified its place as a modern horror classic. If you haven’t already, make sure to add it to your watchlist and experience the terror for yourself.
Conclusion
It Follows is a modern horror film that has captivated audiences with its unique approach to the genre. With its chilling atmosphere, compelling storytelling, and thought-provoking themes, it has become a favorite among horror enthusiasts.
The film’s success can be attributed to its effective use of suspense and tension, as well as its strong performances and haunting visuals. It dives into the deep-rooted fear of the unknown and the relentless pursuit that keeps audiences on the edge of their seats.
Whether you’re a fan of horror films or just looking for a captivating cinematic experience, It Follows is definitely a movie worth watching. Its blend of psychological horror and supernatural elements will leave you chilled to the bone long after the credits roll.
FAQs
Q: What is the basic premise of It Follows?
A: It Follows follows the story of a young woman named Jay who becomes the target of a supernatural entity that relentlessly pursues her after a sexual encounter.
Q: Is It Follows a gory horror film?
A: While It Follows does have its moments of graphic violence, it relies more on creating a tense and eerie atmosphere rather than excessive gore. It focuses on psychological horror rather than relying solely on blood and guts.
Q: Is It Follows based on a true story?
A: No, It Follows is not based on a true story. It is a work of fiction created by writer and director David Robert Mitchell.
Q: Does It Follows have a deeper meaning?
A: Yes, It Follows can be interpreted as a metaphor for sexually transmitted infections or the fear of sexual encounters. It also delves into themes of the inevitability of death and the haunting nature of past traumas.
Q: Is It Follows a jump-scare heavy film?
A: While It Follows does have its share of jump scares, it relies more on building suspense and creating a sense of dread through its atmospheric cinematography and soundtrack.
Q: Is It Follows suitable for all audiences?
A: It Follows is rated R for its intense scenes of violence, sexuality, and some nudity. It may not be suitable for younger viewers or those who are sensitive to horror elements.
After exploring the chilling world of "It Follows," why not delve into the captivating life of director Adam Shankman or embark on a cinematic journey through Tim Burton's filmography? Shankman's unique background and Burton's distinctive style have left indelible marks on the entertainment industry, making their stories just as compelling as the eerie tale of "It Follows." So, if you're ready for more fascinating facts and behind-the-scenes insights, these articles are perfect for satisfying your curiosity and expanding your knowledge of the film world.
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