It Follows (2015)

It Follows (2015) Movie Review: Where to Watch Online

It Follows (2015) is a critically acclaimed horror film directed by David Robert Mitchell. Known for its innovative take on the genre, eerie atmosphere, and hauntingly memorable premise, the film has garnered praise for its originality and unsettling impact. Combining psychological tension with a unique supernatural threat, It Follows has become a standout in modern horror cinema.

In this review, we’ll explore the film’s plot, key performances, and thematic elements. We’ll also provide information on where you can stream or rent It Follows online in the U.S.

Plot Summary

It Follows revolves around Jay Height (Maika Monroe), a teenager who becomes the target of a relentless supernatural entity after a sexual encounter. The entity is cursed to follow Jay in the form of various people, slowly approaching her at a walking pace, and can only be seen by its victims. The curse is passed on through intimate encounters, and Jay must find a way to escape the entity’s pursuit.

As Jay and her friends try to understand and combat the curse, they face increasing terror and paranoia. The film’s narrative builds tension through its sense of dread and the ever-present threat of the entity’s arrival.

Key Characters and Performances

• Jay Height (Maika Monroe)
  Maika Monroe plays Jay Height, the protagonist who becomes the focus of the supernatural entity. Monroe’s performance is both relatable and haunting, capturing Jay’s fear and determination as she grapples with the curse.
• Paul (Keir Gilchrist)
  Keir Gilchrist portrays Paul, Jay’s friend who harbors feelings for her and becomes involved in the efforts to combat the curse. Gilchrist’s performance adds depth to the character and highlights the film’s themes of loyalty and friendship.
• Yara (Olivia Luccardi)
  Olivia Luccardi plays Yara, Jay’s close friend who provides support and tries to help her understand the nature of the curse. Luccardi’s performance contributes to the film’s emotional and dramatic elements.
• Greg (Daniel Zovatto)
  Daniel Zovatto appears as Greg, a friend of Jay’s who becomes directly affected by the curse. Zovatto’s portrayal adds to the film’s sense of urgency and danger.
• The Entity
  The entity, which can take on various forms, is portrayed through a combination of practical effects and subtle visual cues. Its appearance adds to the film’s eerie atmosphere and sense of unease.

What to Expect from It Follows

Strengths

1. Unique Premise: The film’s concept of a supernatural entity that follows its victims at a slow, relentless pace is both original and terrifying. This unique premise sets It Follows apart from other horror films.
2. Atmospheric Tension: It Follows creates a palpable sense of dread through its atmospheric cinematography and eerie score. The film’s use of sound and visual techniques heightens the sense of unease and suspense.
3. Strong Performances: The cast, led by Maika Monroe, delivers strong performances that enhance the film’s emotional impact. The actors’ portrayals of fear, anxiety, and determination contribute to the film’s effectiveness.
4. Effective Use of Music: The film’s score, composed by Rich Vreeland (also known as Disasterpeace), is integral to its unsettling atmosphere. The synth-heavy soundtrack evokes a retro feel and adds to the film’s tension.

Weaknesses

1. Slow Pacing: Some viewers may find the film’s pacing slow, particularly in its middle sections. The deliberate buildup of tension may feel drawn out for those accustomed to faster-paced horror films.
2. Ambiguous Plot Elements: The film’s ambiguity regarding the origin and nature of the curse may be unsatisfying for some viewers who prefer more concrete explanations. The lack of detailed backstory adds to the film’s mystery but may leave some questions unanswered.
3. Limited Character Development: While the characters are engaging, their development may be limited compared to other horror films. The focus on the supernatural threat can sometimes overshadow deeper exploration of the characters’ backgrounds and motivations.

Direction and Cinematography

David Robert Mitchell’s direction brings a fresh and innovative approach to the horror genre. His ability to build tension and create an atmosphere of dread is central to the film’s success. Mitchell’s use of long takes and static shots enhances the sense of paranoia and unease.

The cinematography, by Mike Gioulakis, complements Mitchell’s vision with its moody and evocative visuals. The film’s use of wide shots and long takes creates a sense of vulnerability and isolation, contributing to the overall sense of dread.

Where to Watch It Follows Online in the U.S.

Streaming Services

It Follows is available for streaming on several platforms:

1. Amazon Prime Video
   • The film can be rented or purchased on Amazon Prime Video. Rentals typically cost around $3.99, while purchases range from $9.99 to $14.99.
2. Apple TV+
   • It Follows is available for rent or purchase on Apple TV+, with rental prices typically around $3.99 and purchase options starting at $9.99.
3. Google Play Movies
   • The film can be rented or purchased on Google Play Movies, with rentals at $3.99 and purchases ranging from $9.99 to $14.99.
4. Hulu
   • It Follows is available for streaming on Hulu with a subscription. Check the platform for availability.

Rental and Purchase Options

For additional rental and purchase options, you can also check:

• Vudu
• YouTube Movies
• Microsoft Store

Rental prices generally range from $2.99 to $4.99, with purchase options typically falling between $9.99 and $14.99.

Physical Media

It Follows is available on DVD and Blu-ray, which can be purchased through major retailers such as Amazon and Walmart. Special editions may include bonus features such as behind-the-scenes content, interviews with the cast and crew, and commentary.

Conclusion

It Follows (2015) is a standout horror film that offers a fresh and unsettling take on the genre. With its unique premise, atmospheric tension, and strong performances, the film delivers a memorable and chilling experience. Available for streaming and digital rental or purchase, It Follows is a must-watch for fans of innovative and psychological horror.