I SAW THE TV GLOW, directed by Jane Schoenbrun, is a visually stunning and vividly atmospheric film. The movie stars Justice Smith, whose role in this movie feels like a departure from DETECTIVE PIKACHU and DUNGEONS & DRAGONS. Smith delivers an engaging performance, complemented by his co-star Bridget Lundy-Paine, who also shines in their role.
Overall, the movie is excellent…but I wouldn’t watch it again. The story is sparse, but its implications are profound, requiring you to use your imagination to piece together the film. Schoenbrun creates a palpable tension and intense eeriness throughout the film, reminding me of the Safdie brothers or Charlie Kaufman.
That being said, while I SAW THE TV GLOW might seem like a horror movie due to its constant tension, it doesn’t strictly fit into that genre. The world-building is impressive and intentional; the terror in this movie comes from the oddness of Schoenbrun’s universe; the backrooms, liminal spaces, and mind-altering nostalgia. And in the background, an impressive score by Alex G and an equally star-studded soundtrack including Caroline Polachek, Phoebe Bridgers, Jay Som, Yeule, and more.
I SAW THE TV GLOW has something to say and gets its point across. It may not be the most traditionally enjoyable movie, given that the film’s emotional impact comes more from implications and allegory than its plot. If you enjoy movies that prioritize setting and atmosphere over explicit storytelling, I SAW THE TV GLOW is definitely worth your time.
I SAW THE TV GLOW is now playing in theaters.
