Unveiling the Cinematographic Innovations of It Follows (2014)

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Premise of "It Follows"
3. Addressing and Challenging Slasher Film Conventions
4. Cinematography: Borrowing and Subverting Techniques
5. The Influence of 1980s Slasher Films
6. Formal Differences and Innovations
7. Paranoia of Open Spaces
8. Luxuriating in Perception
9. The Death of Inwardness
10. Endings: Unpinning the Monster

🎬 The Influence of Cinematography in "It Follows"

The horror film genre has seen countless movies that adhere to specific conventions and tropes. However, every now and then, a film emerges that manages to both pay homage to these conventions and challenge them in unique and compelling ways. In 2014, the horror film "It Follows," written and directed by David Robert Mitchell, did just that. It garnered attention from film scholars and critics alike for its innovative approach to cinematography and its subversion of traditional slasher film techniques.

💡 The Premise of "It Follows"

At its core, "It Follows" tells the story of Jay, a young woman who becomes the target of a sexually transmitted demon. This entity takes on the form of anonymous human beings and relentlessly pursues Jay at a constant pace. If the demon touches her, she will die. This premise immediately sets the stage for suspense and tension, but it is not the only aspect of the film that makes it unique.

🎥 Addressing and Challenging Slasher Film Conventions

One of the notable ways in which "It Follows" borrows from and challenges slasher horror conventions is through its cinematography. While slasher films often rely on jump scares and the use of confined spaces, "It Follows" takes a different approach. It appropriates these techniques but subverts them in a way that keeps the audience engaged and on edge.

For example, the film incorporates the use of off-screen space and the idea of the space being penetrated. This creates a sense of paranoia and vulnerability for the characters and the audience. Shots like the protagonist examining herself or a broken window in the kitchen are classic horror tropes that intensify the fear of the unknown and what lies beyond the frame.

📽️ Cinematography: Borrowing and Subverting Techniques

"It Follows" not only borrows slasher film techniques but also subverts them through its cinematography. The film taps into the popular 1980s era of horror, evident in its retro illustrated poster art reminiscent of films like "Halloween," "Nightmare on Elm Street," and "Friday the 13th." The use of wide-angle lenses, which was prominent in "Halloween," is also employed in "It Follows," further paying homage to the slasher genre.

However, "It Follows" distinguishes itself from traditional slasher films through rotational camera movements, scanning of open spaces, and subjective point of view shots. These techniques create a sense of paranoia and emphasize the constant threat that could be lurking from any direction.

🌟 The Influence of 1980s Slasher Films

The film heavily draws inspiration from 1980s slasher films, both in terms of visuals and thematic elements. It capitalizes on the popularity and nostalgia surrounding these classics to appeal to audiences who have an affinity for the genre. By evoking the atmosphere and aesthetics of films like "Halloween," "It Follows" taps into the familiarity and expectations associated with slasher horror.

Parallel to its visual homage, "It Follows" tackles the theme of premarital sexuality, which is a cornerstone of 1980s horror films. It explores the ideological components surrounding sexual norms and includes shots that invoke the same sense of impending doom prevalent in those films.

🔍 Formal Differences and Innovations

While "It Follows" may seem reminiscent of traditional slasher films, it sets itself apart through formal differences and innovations. The film plays with the notion of confined spaces being penetrated, drawing on the audience's expectations, but it also introduces open spaces that fuel paranoia. This distinct approach amplifies the sense of constant vigilance and fear in a different manner than the jump scares typical of the genre.

Additionally, the film offers moments of luxuriating perception, where the protagonist's awareness and focus shift from self-preservation to observing the world around her. These seemingly inconsequential moments contribute to the film's overall narrative and the unique viewing experience it offers.

🌌 Paranoia of Open Spaces

"It Follows" distinguishes itself by training the audience to be paranoid about open spaces rather than the conventional fear of closed spaces. Through cinematographic techniques, the film instills a fear that emerges from the constant possibility of a threat lurking in plain sight. The use of subjective point of view shots and the emphasis on scanning space create an atmosphere of vigilance, where each passerby may be a potential monster.

Moreover, the film rewards attentive viewers by occasionally including subtle hints or potential threats that require active engagement to uncover. This evokes a twinge of paranoia even outside the theater, as audience members might find themselves looking at strangers and questioning their intentions.

🚫 The Death of Inwardness

"It Follows" explores the concept of the death of inwardness, where the protagonist's tendency to close herself off from the world becomes a vulnerable, pigeonholed vision. The film contrasts moments of inward reflection and self-absorption with instances where the character's perception is broadened to the surrounding environment.

Scenes depicting the protagonist fixating on her hand or engaging in idle games of perception serve a purpose beyond filling screen time. They challenge the viewer to consider the luxury of perceiving the world without a constant fear for one's safety, setting the stage for the tragedy that unfolds as the film progresses.

🎞️ Endings: Unpinning the Monster

A defining characteristic of slasher films is the omnipresence of the monster, often leaving the audience with an unsettling feeling that the threat remains unresolved. "It Follows" channels this aspect but takes it a step further. The film ends with shots that refuse to pin down the monster, echoing its ever-present nature. The final scenes serve as a haunting reminder that danger can manifest in ordinary situations or people, perpetuating a sense of paranoia long after the credits roll.

🎞️ FAQ

Q: Does "It Follows" rely heavily on jump scares?\ A: While the film incorporates some jump scares, it subverts the traditional reliance on this technique. "It Follows" generates suspense through its cinematography and atmospheric tension, keeping the audience on edge without solely relying on sudden surprises.

Q: How does "It Follows" differ from other slasher films?\ A: "It Follows" borrows elements from slasher films but distinguishes itself through its cinematographic innovations and subversion of conventions. The film plays with the audience's expectations, utilizing spaces and perspectives in unique ways to create a distinct viewing experience.

Q: What is the significance of the rotating camera movements in "It Follows"?\ A: The rotating camera movements in "It Follows" serve multiple purposes. They create a sense of paranoia by scanning open spaces instead of confining the action to a specific setting. Additionally, they emphasize the ever-present threat lurking from all directions, heightening the tension and keeping the audience on high alert.

Q: How does "It Follows" challenge slasher film conventions?\ A: While "It Follows" pays homage to slasher film conventions through its use of 1980s aesthetics, it challenges traditional tropes by subverting jump scares and confined spaces. The film taps into the fear of open spaces and plays with audience expectations, ensuring a unique and thought-provoking viewing experience.

Q: Is "It Follows" just another slasher film?\ A: While "It Follows" shares some similarities with slasher films, it stands out as a unique and innovative entry in the genre. Its cinematography, thematic explorations, and departure from traditional slasher film techniques distinguish it as a film that both embraces and challenges the genre's conventions.