Review of It Follows (2015)

David Robert Mitchell’s It Follows (2015) is a haunting and inventive horror film that reimagines the genre with a minimalist yet deeply unsettling approach. Centered on a supernatural curse passed through intimate encounters, the film explores themes of mortality, sexual awakening, and the inescapable nature of fear. With its striking cinematography, eerie score, and subversive storytelling, It Follows has earned its place as a modern horror classic.

Plot and Themes

The story follows Jay Height (Maika Monroe), a teenager whose life takes a terrifying turn after a seemingly normal date leads to a shocking revelation. Her partner, Hugh (Jake Weary), informs her that he has passed a curse onto her: a shape-shifting entity will relentlessly pursue her until it either catches her or she passes the curse to someone else through sexual contact. The entity can appear as anyone and moves at a slow but relentless pace, creating an ever-present sense of dread.

The film’s premise is deceptively simple but rich in subtext. It Follows delves into themes of sexual responsibility, the inevitability of death, and the loss of innocence. By framing the entity as a constant, creeping threat, Mitchell captures the anxiety of growing up and confronting life’s inescapable realities. The film’s ambiguity—it never fully explains the curse’s origins or mechanics—adds to its unsettling atmosphere, leaving much to the viewer’s imagination.

Performances

Maika Monroe delivers a compelling performance as Jay, capturing the character’s vulnerability and resilience in equal measure. Monroe’s portrayal grounds the film, making Jay’s terror and determination feel authentic. The supporting cast, including Keir Gilchrist as Paul, Olivia Luccardi as Yara, and Daniel Zovatto as Greg, provide solid performances that highlight the bonds of friendship and the shared trauma of facing an unimaginable threat.

Direction and Cinematography

David Robert Mitchell’s direction is masterful, creating a sense of unease through deliberate pacing and an emphasis on visual storytelling. The film’s use of wide-angle shots and slow, methodical camera movements enhances the feeling of paranoia, as the audience is constantly scanning the frame for the entity’s presence.

Cinematographer Mike Gioulakis’s work is a standout feature, blending suburban Americana with dreamlike surrealism. The juxtaposition of familiar settings—quiet neighborhoods, empty schoolyards, desolate beaches—with the lurking menace of the entity creates a uniquely unsettling atmosphere. The decision to leave the time period ambiguous, with elements of both retro and modern aesthetics, further contributes to the film’s disorienting tone.

Music and Sound Design

Disasterpeace’s synth-heavy score is a crucial element of the film’s success. The music oscillates between ethereal melodies and jarring, discordant tones, heightening the tension and amplifying the sense of dread. The score evokes the soundtracks of 1980s horror films, while simultaneously feeling fresh and innovative.

The sound design is equally effective, with the entity’s approach often signaled by subtle audio cues. This interplay between sound and silence keeps the audience on edge, reinforcing the film’s relentless sense of foreboding.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Strengths:

• A unique and chilling premise that subverts traditional horror tropes.
• Maika Monroe’s standout performance as a relatable and resourceful protagonist.
• Visually striking cinematography and a meticulously crafted atmosphere.
• Disasterpeace’s unforgettable score.

Weaknesses:

• The film’s ambiguity, while effective for some, may frustrate viewers seeking clear answers.
• The slow pacing may not appeal to fans of more action-driven horror films.

Legacy and Impact

It Follows received widespread critical acclaim upon its release, praised for its originality, direction, and atmosphere. The film’s innovative approach to horror—eschewing jump scares in favor of sustained tension—has influenced subsequent entries in the genre. Its success cemented David Robert Mitchell as a filmmaker to watch and solidified Maika Monroe’s status as a modern “scream queen.”

Beyond its critical reception, It Follows has sparked extensive analysis and interpretation, with fans and scholars dissecting its themes and symbolic elements. The film’s exploration of fear as a constant, inescapable presence resonates deeply, making it a standout entry in 21st-century horror.

Conclusion

It Follows (2015) is a masterclass in atmospheric horror, blending a simple yet terrifying premise with rich thematic depth and stunning visual storytelling. David Robert Mitchell’s direction, combined with Maika Monroe’s compelling performance and Disasterpeace’s haunting score, creates an experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

For those who appreciate cerebral, slow-burning horror that prioritizes atmosphere over spectacle, It Follows is an essential watch. Its innovative take on the genre ensures its place as a modern classic, reminding audiences that sometimes the scariest things are the ones that never stop coming.