Many films aspire to the rank of ‘elevated’ horror, usually wielding heavy subtext, social commentary and abundant use of ‘monster as metaphor’ in order to rise above genre trappings. This film aims very high, struggling to be considered something ‘greater’ than simple genre, trying to make broad statements on generational and cultural alienation, teenage struggle, depression and angst, in a backdrop of the Indian migrant experience. The filmmakers mine Hindu lore to present a different skin on its demonic entity, and there are some well executed scenes involving the creature’s invisible assault. The acting is well done, with Megan Suri’s expressive eyes almost a character unto themselves, and with much of the cast switching languages on the fly. The direction and cinematography is above average, shadows and lighting rendering some wonderful visual metaphors and visual tricks. Unfortunately in making an attempt at ‘elevated horror,’ one cannot actually neglect the ‘horror’ part of this equation. The movie is bloodless, frightless, and devoid of any real spice or flavor. There’s little remarkable about this film beyond the cultural reskin, and while those aspects are refreshing it is still not enough to elevate this film beyond a woefully derivative script and teen-horror trappings. Were this meal to have a bit more bite, it could have been an exceptional horror entry for the year, as it stands there is a sense of wasted potential and sincere hopes the filmmakers can deliver greater feasts in the future.
It Lives Inside (2023)