"Under the Skin" Throwback Review
Under the Skin is both sensual and predatory in its use of the human body to tell its story. It delves deep into the question we always try to find an answer to, “what makes us human?” A definitive answer is never given, mostly because there isn’t one, but what you do get out of this film is a riveting performance by Scarlett Johansson and a bizarre story that is a maze to comprehend, but mesmerizing to watch.
The film definitely does not have a straightforward containing the usual characters we’re used to. Dialogue is minimalistic and does little to the overall story. Describing the plot would be a waste of people’s time, mostly because going into the film cold aids the ultimate experience. A tip would be to pay special attention to the imagery and movement as they are key to the story.
Thinking about this film is probably the most joy you can get out of watching it. It doesn’t give you a lot to work with in terms of deciphering the plot. It makes you ask many questions that have no clear answer. This is the type of film where the phrase “It’s up to your interpretation” is a correct way to explain things.
This is not a perfect film though. It drags in the beginning third as we repeatedly watch Johansson’s character interact with other humans. It’s an interesting character study, but one that goes on for far too long. There is also the use of documentary style filming in some scenes. This works well in making the film authentic, but it contrasts too much from the cinematic feel the rest of the film has.
One thing that surprised me after watching it was the number of times I genuinely felt fear. This is one of the scariest non-horror films as it incites a sense of dread and uneasiness the whole way through. The scene in total darkness, in particular, shook my bones and will remain with me forever.
If I had to choose two words to describe this film it would be “surreal arthouse.” This film is very artistic and mysterious that speaks predominantly in metaphors. Director Jonathan Glazer does a great job at making the film both frustrating and engrossing. I felt slightly unsatisfied that I couldn't figure out the plot while first watching, but it didn’t matter as I was too interested in what would happen next. The film will definitely grow on you the longer you sit on it and slowly process everything that went down.
The camera is treated more like a character than a tool. It dictates what we know and how we receive information. Most of the time we are following Scarlett’s character close up as she reacts to human connection. Her face is blank most of the time as if she is intrigued by the things we do as humans.
The cast, just like the dialogue, is minimalistic as there are really only two main actors. Scarlett Johansson is breathtaking as our unknown protagonist, who is officially called “The Female.” She gives a creepy, yet human performance this is well balanced. She adds so much depth to her character by saying probably less than one hundred words. I have so many questions about her character that I wish would be explored more, which is a testament to what she delivers to the narrative.
Jeremy McWilliams also does a fine job as “The Bad Man”, Scarlett’s evasive partner that oversees her journey. He also gives a chilling performance and literally has no dialogue throughout the film. He uses a menacing stare and a strict body style to give us the impression that we don’t ever want to meet him in real life.
Glazer has once been called “the heir to Kubrick,” so that should give you some indication if you would have interest in this film. This is a dark and often challenging film to watch, but the reward you get out of it is worth every minute you put in.
Glazer has once been called “the heir to Kubrick,” so that should give you some indication if you would have interest in this film. This is a dark and often challenging film to watch, but the reward you get out of it is worth every minute you put in.
