By Chlotrudis Independent Film Society
Rating: 4 cats
Director: Jane Schoenbrun
Starring: Brigette Lundy-Paine | Helena Howard | Ian Foreman | Justice Smith | Lindsey Jordan
Year: 2024
Running time: 100
IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt15574270/reference/
Michael says: “After making a splash with their debut film, WE ARE ALL GOING TO THE WORLD’S FAIR, writer/director Jane Schoenbrun follows-up with a creative, thought-provoking, and devastating examination of the struggle between our outer and inner selves through the lens of cult TV shows in I SAW THE TV GLOW. Owen and Maddie, both misfits of a sort dealing with loneliness and isolation in their teens, bond over a surreal TV show called The Pink Opaque. As the two grow closer, a palpable sense of danger and surrealism creeps into their lives.
“When Maddie suddenly disappears without a trace, Owen struggles on, feeling something missing in his life. Her dramatic return nearly a decade later reveals something that could be life-altering, and Owen must ultimately make the most important choice in his life.
“Schoenbrun weaves the escape into another world into the lives of two young people struggling to find their identity. It’s part sci fic, part teen drama that explores the search for truth despite huge obstacles, and hits hard with an ending that answers questions while leaving thing open to various interpretations. Performances by Justice Smith and Brigette Lundy-Paine are convincingly delivered, and Schoenbrun continues to show that they have a strong grasp of both storytelling and filmmaking. My thoughts about I SAW THE TV GLOW evolved over night, and after speaking to a few others’ to hear their thoughts on the film, ultimately earning 4 cats“
“Screened at the Independent Film Festival Boston 2024”