It Follows: A Relentless Nightmare of Inexplicable Terror

The opening shot of Annie sprinting through her neighborhood, her face contorted in terror, sets the tone for It Follows: relentless dread. Director David Robert Mitchell crafts a horror film that lingers like a persistent nightmare, anchored by its chilling premise and a slow-burn atmosphere.

At its core, It Follows is about Jay Height (Maika Monroe), a college student who becomes the target of a supernatural entity after a sexual encounter with her boyfriend Hugh (Jake Weary). The film’s genius lies in its simplicity: the entity moves at a walking pace but is inexorable, taking the form of anyone it chooses. This concept allows Mitchell to explore themes of intimacy, vulnerability, and the inescapable consequences of human connection.

The film’s strength lies in its craftsmanship. Mitchell’s direction is precise, using long takes and static shots to build tension. The cinematography by Mike Gioulakis is striking, with a cool color palette that contrasts sharply with the warm tones of Jay’s suburban world. The score by Disasterpeace adds an eerie, synth-heavy layer that heightens the film’s unsettling atmosphere.

Maika Monroe delivers a compelling performance as Jay, conveying fear and confusion with subtlety. Keir Gilchrist as Paul, Jay’s childhood friend, provides a grounded counterpoint to the supernatural horror, while Daniel Zovatto as Greg brings an unexpected depth to his character. The ensemble cast works well together, creating a believable dynamic of friendship and support.

However, the film falters in its pacing. While the slow-burn approach is effective for building tension, some scenes drag on without adding significant value to the narrative. Additionally, the film’s resolution feels somewhat abrupt, leaving several questions unanswered. The decision to leave certain plot points open-ended may frustrate some viewers seeking a more definitive conclusion.

It Follows also struggles with its genre fit. While it excels as a psychological horror film, its mystery elements are less compelling. The film’s exploration of the entity’s origins and rules feels underdeveloped, leaving room for ambiguity that might not sit well with all audiences.

In the end, It Follows is a haunting and original take on the horror genre. Its chilling premise, strong performances, and atmospheric craftsmanship make it a standout film.