It Follows: A Chilling Blend of Psychological Terror and Visceral Horror

The opening scene of It Follows is a masterclass in dread: Annie, bloodied and barefoot, stumbling away from her home, her eyes wide with terror. She won’t accept help, won’t scream—just runs until she can’t anymore. It’s a haunting introduction to the film’s central premise, one that lingers long after the credits roll.

David Robert Mitchell’s It Follows is a slow-burn horror that subverts genre expectations by blending psychological tension with visceral scares. The film follows Jay Height (Maika Monroe), a college student who finds herself pursued by an unknown supernatural force after a sexual encounter with her boyfriend, Hugh (Jake Weary). The entity can take the form of any person—living or dead—and moves at a steady pace, but it’s relentless in its pursuit. Mitchell’s direction is precise, using long takes and a synth-heavy score to build tension that feels both familiar and fresh.

The film’s originality lies in its ability to make the mundane feel menacing. A walk down a school hallway becomes a nightmare when Jay sees an old woman shambling toward her, while a quiet night by the lake turns terrifying as the entity attacks in the guise of her friend Yara (Olivia Luccardi). The cinematography, with its washed-out colors and wide shots, gives the suburban setting an eerie, dreamlike quality. Mitchell’s use of space is particularly effective; he often frames characters at a distance, emphasizing their isolation and vulnerability.

Maika Monroe delivers a standout performance as Jay, balancing vulnerability and determination as she tries to outrun her pursuer. Her portrayal of fear is raw and authentic, making the audience feel every moment of her panic. Keir Gilchrist as Paul, Jay’s childhood friend, brings emotional depth to his role, particularly in a scene where he confesses his love for her. His performance is both tender and heartbreaking, adding a layer of humanity to the film’s horror.

The supporting cast is equally strong. Daniel Zovatto as Greg Hannigan provides much-needed comic relief without undermining the film’s tension, while Lili Sepe as Kelly Height offers a grounding presence as Jay’s supportive sister. Jake Weary’s portrayal of Hugh is chilling; his calm demeanor contrasts sharply with the terror he inflicts on Jay, making him a compelling antagonist.

The film’s exploration of themes such as inherited trauma and the anxieties of youth sets it apart from other horror movies. The entity serves as a metaphor for the inescapable consequences of past actions, a relentless force that can only be passed on rather than destroyed. This theme resonates deeply with audiences, particularly those who have experienced the weight of guilt or the fear of being pursued by their own mistakes.

It Follows isn’t just a horror film; it’s a metaphor for the anxieties of youth, the weight of inherited trauma, and the struggle to break free from past mistakes. It’s a film that rewards close viewing, with layers of meaning hidden beneath its surface. The pacing can feel uneven at times, particularly in the middle act, where some scenes drag while others rush by too quickly. The rules governing the entity—how it moves, how it can be passed on—are intriguing but occasionally inconsistent, leading to moments that strain credibility. And while the ending is satisfyingly ambiguous, it leaves some narrative threads dangling.

Despite these flaws, It Follows remains a compelling and thought-provoking film. Its originality, strong performances, and effective direction make it a standout in the horror genre. The film’s ability to blend psychological tension with visceral scares ensures that it will leave a lasting impression on viewers.

It Follows is for those who appreciate horror that goes beyond cheap jump scares and explores deeper themes. It’s for audiences who enjoy films that make them think as much as they make them scream.