“I Saw The TV Glow” (2024)

Drama

Running Time: 100 minutes

Written & directed by: Jane Schoenbrun

Featuring: Justice Smith, Brigette Lundy-Paine, Helena Howard, Lindsey Jordan, Conner O’Malley, Emma Portner, Ian Foreman, Fred Durst and Danielle Deadwyler

Maddy: “Time wasn’t right. It was moving too fast. And then I was 19. And then I was 20. I felt like one of those dolls asleep in the supermarket. Stuffed. And then I was 21. Like chapters skipped over on a DVD. I told myself, “This isn’t normal. This isn’t normal. This isn’t how life is supposed to feel.””

“I Saw the TV Glow” is an intriguing cinematic experience that oscillates between being a nostalgic homage to ’90s pop culture and a chilling psychological thriller. Directed by Jane Schoenbrun, the film dives deep into the psyche of its characters, presenting a layered narrative that is both engaging and thought-provoking. Here’s a comprehensive look at this unique film.

The story revolves around two teenagers, Casey and Eric, who form an intense friendship based on their mutual obsession with a mysterious TV show. This show, which is broadcast only at odd hours, becomes the foundation of their bond and the anchor for their reality. The setting, drenched in the hues of CRT screens and the ambient noise of VHS tapes, transports the audience back to the late ’90s, evoking a sense of nostalgia for anyone who grew up in that era.

As the plot unfolds, the lines between reality and the TV show blur, leading to a series of eerie and unsettling events. The show within the film begins to influence the characters’ lives in increasingly disturbing ways, culminating in a harrowing climax that leaves the audience questioning the nature of reality and the power of media.

“I Saw the TV Glow” tackles several profound themes, including the impact of media on young minds, the nature of friendship, and the struggle between reality and fantasy. The TV show serves as a metaphor for the escapism that many people seek in media, especially during their formative years. It reflects how media can shape perceptions, behaviors, and even mental health.

The film also delves into the concept of shared delusion, where Casey and Eric’s intense connection to the TV show leads them down a path of mutual paranoia and fear. This shared delusion is a poignant commentary on how shared experiences, especially through media, can create deep bonds but also lead to collective psychosis.

The performances in “I Saw the TV Glow” are nothing short of remarkable. The lead actors, whose portrayals of Casey and Eric are both nuanced and compelling, bring a depth to their characters that is crucial for the film’s success. Their chemistry is palpable, and their descent into paranoia and obsession is both believable and heartbreaking.

Supporting performances also shine, particularly those playing the enigmatic figures involved with the TV show. These characters add to the film’s eerie atmosphere, providing both context and mystery to the unfolding events.

Jane Schoenbrun’s direction is masterful, creating an atmosphere that is simultaneously nostalgic and unsettling. The use of lighting and color palette evokes the late ’90s perfectly, while also enhancing the film’s eerie tone. Schoenbrun expertly balances the film’s slower, contemplative moments with its more intense, suspenseful scenes, keeping the audience engaged throughout.

The cinematography by Kareem Hussain is a standout element, with the grainy, lo-fi aesthetic of the ’90s TV broadcasts being recreated with meticulous detail. The visual style not only reinforces the nostalgic feel but also contributes to the film’s overall sense of unease.

The soundtrack of “I Saw the TV Glow” deserves special mention. The music, composed by a mix of ’90s-inspired tracks and original scores, perfectly complements the film’s atmosphere. It oscillates between melancholic and haunting, mirroring the emotional journey of the characters.

The sound design also plays a crucial role in building tension and suspense. The ambient noises of old technology, the static of TV screens, and the eerie silence in certain scenes all contribute to the film’s unsettling vibe.

“I Saw the TV Glow” is a meticulously crafted psychological thriller that transcends conventional boundaries, creating an experience that is as immersive as it is thought-provoking. Directed by Jane Schoenbrun, the film serves as both a tribute to ’90s pop culture and a haunting exploration of the human psyche. Here’s a deeper dive into various aspects of this unique film.

The narrative structure of “I Saw the TV Glow” is built around the lives of two teenagers, Casey and Eric, who find solace and escape in an enigmatic late-night TV show. This show, airing at odd hours on a local channel, becomes the epicenter of their lives, influencing their perceptions and actions. The film’s setting, vividly bringing the late ’90s to life, is characterized by the omnipresence of CRT televisions, VHS tapes, and the analog ambiance that defined the era.

As Casey and Eric delve deeper into the show, reality and fiction start to intertwine. The show’s influence grows increasingly sinister, leading to a series of events that blur the line between the real world and the broadcasted fiction. This progression is both gradual and terrifying, as the audience witnesses the characters’ psychological deterioration. The setting itself, with its dimly lit rooms and flickering TV screens, enhances the film’s unsettling atmosphere, making the boundary between reality and fantasy almost imperceptible.

At its core, “I Saw the TV Glow” explores the profound impact of media on young, impressionable minds. The TV show serves as a powerful symbol of escapism, reflecting how individuals, particularly teenagers, often turn to media to cope with their realities. This escapism, however, is double-edged; while it offers a refuge, it also has the potential to distort reality and influence behavior in dangerous ways.

The film also delves into themes of friendship and shared delusion. Casey and Eric’s intense connection, fostered through their shared obsession with the TV show, highlights how powerful and consuming such bonds can be. Their descent into paranoia and shared psychosis serves as a chilling reminder of how collective experiences, especially those mediated through screens, can lead to distorted perceptions of reality.

The symbolism in the film is rich and multifaceted. The TV screen itself becomes a portal to an alternate reality, while the static and interference on the screen symbolize the disruption of their mental states. The recurring motif of the glow of the TV screen represents the hypnotic allure of media and its pervasive influence on the subconscious.

The performances in “I Saw the TV Glow” are a standout feature. The lead actors, who play Casey and Eric, deliver nuanced and deeply emotional portrayals. Their chemistry is authentic and compelling, making their journey from innocent fascination to disturbing obsession both believable and heartbreaking. Their ability to convey the subtle shifts in their mental states is crucial to the film’s impact.

Supporting performances also contribute significantly to the film’s eerie atmosphere. Characters associated with the TV show, whether they are enigmatic figures or seemingly normal individuals, add layers of mystery and tension. Their interactions with the protagonists often leave the audience questioning their motives and the reality of the situations.

Jane Schoenbrun’s direction is masterful, creating a film that is both visually and emotionally resonant. The deliberate pacing allows the tension to build gradually, drawing the audience deeper into the psychological maze. Schoenbrun’s ability to balance moments of quiet introspection with sudden bursts of intensity keeps viewers on edge.

The cinematography by Kareem Hussain enhances the film’s unsettling tone. The visual style, characterized by grainy textures and muted colors, perfectly captures the ’90s aesthetic. The use of lighting, particularly the ominous glow of TV screens, creates a pervasive sense of unease. Each frame is carefully composed to reflect the characters’ internal states, with the camera often lingering on seemingly mundane objects that take on a menacing quality.

The soundtrack of “I Saw the TV Glow” is an integral part of its immersive experience. The music, blending ’90s-inspired tracks with an original score, mirrors the film’s emotional and psychological landscape. The haunting melodies and eerie soundscapes heighten the tension and reinforce the film’s nostalgic yet unsettling atmosphere.

Sound design plays a critical role in building the film’s mood. The ambient sounds of old technology, such as the hum of CRT monitors and the crackle of static, are used to great effect. These sounds, combined with moments of silence, create a sense of anticipation and dread. The auditory experience is as disorienting as the visual, drawing the audience deeper into the characters’ deteriorating mental states.

Beyond its surface narrative, “I Saw the TV Glow” offers profound psychological and philosophical insights. The film invites viewers to reflect on the nature of reality and the extent to which media shapes our perceptions. It raises questions about the boundaries between reality and fantasy, and how easily those boundaries can be blurred by powerful narratives.

The psychological deterioration of Casey and Eric serves as a case study in the dangers of over-identification with media. Their journey illustrates how media consumption can become an unhealthy obsession, leading to a loss of self and a disconnection from reality. The film also explores the concept of shared delusion, where two individuals reinforce each other’s distorted views, creating a feedback loop that amplifies their paranoia.

“I Saw the TV Glow” is a fascinating exploration of media’s influence on reality and the fragility of the human mind. It’s a film that requires the audience to think deeply about the themes it presents, making it more than just a psychological thriller. The combination of strong performances, meticulous direction, and evocative cinematography creates an experience that is both immersive and haunting.

While the film may not be for everyone, especially those who prefer straightforward narratives, it is a must-watch for fans of psychological thrillers and those who appreciate films that challenge the boundaries between reality and fiction. “I Saw the TV Glow” is a poignant reminder of the power of media and the delicate balance between escapism and reality, making it a memorable addition to the genre.