Queer horror has long been a subversive and powerful genre, using the fears and anxieties of marginalized communities to create chilling and thought-provoking narratives. And in the case of “I Saw the TV Glow,” a new arthouse masterpiece from director Emma Green, this genre reaches new heights of brilliance and innovation.
The film follows Alex, a young queer woman who starts experiencing horrifying visions after waking up one night to find her television mysteriously glowing in the dark. As the visions become more intense and disturbing, Alex is forced to confront her own traumas and fears, leading to a startling and unflinching exploration of identity, desire, and the supernatural.
Green’s direction in “I Saw the TV Glow” is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant. The film is bathed in a haunting and ethereal glow, creating a dreamlike atmosphere that is both beautiful and terrifying. The use of light and shadow is masterful, evoking a sense of unease and foreboding that lingers long after the credits roll.
But what truly sets “I Saw the TV Glow” apart is its unapologetic queerness. Alex’s struggles with her own sexuality and sense of self are at the forefront of the narrative, and Green handles these themes with sensitivity and depth. The film explores the intersections of queerness and horror in a way that is both subversive and empowering, creating a space for queer audiences to see themselves reflected on screen in a truly unique and profound way.
The performances in “I Saw the TV Glow” are also top-notch, with newcomer Sarah Jones delivering a powerhouse performance as Alex. Jones brings a vulnerability and intensity to the role that is both heartbreaking and electrifying, drawing the audience into Alex’s journey with emotional rawness and authenticity.
Overall, “I Saw the TV Glow” is a stunning achievement in queer horror cinema. Green’s bold vision and Jones’s powerful performance combine to create a film that is both a thrilling horror experience and a profound exploration of queer identity. This is a film that will linger in your mind long after you’ve left the theater, a haunting and unforgettable masterpiece that redefines what queer horror can be.
