I Saw The TV Glow
The 90s are back, baby, & Jane Schoenbrun’s new film, I Saw The TV Glow, brings that era's vibes to life in a way that’s both nostalgic & deeply introspective.
A Deep Dive into Teenage Turmoil
At the heart of I Saw The TV Glow is Owen, portrayed by Justice Smith, a teenager grappling with isolation & the haunting shadow of his mother's death. His world gains colour & complexity when he meets Maddy, played by Brigette Lundy-Paine, a slightly older girl who shares his fascination with a late-night show called, The Pink Opaque. For these two outcasts, The Pink Opaque becomes more than just a show - it’s a sanctuary where they find characters they relate to & a friendship that helps them escape their everyday struggles.
Owen’s journey is a poignant exploration of teenage depression & loneliness. The film portrays his inner turmoil with a delicate touch, showing how the solace he finds in Maddy & their shared obsession becomes a lifeline. But when Maddy mysteriously disappears & The Pink Opaque gets cancelled, Owen’s reality begins to unravel. This sequence of events blurs the line between fiction & reality, creating a surreal narrative that echoes Owen’s quest for belonging & stability.
A Visual Feast
I Saw The TV Glow is a feast for the eyes. The film’s aesthetic is a striking contrast to its sombre themes, with vivid pinks & greens dominating the screen. This bold use of colour transforms the movie into a visual spectacle that captivates from start to finish. Every frame is meticulously crafted to reflect the ethereal & fantastical nature of the story, mirroring the dreamlike quality of The Pink Opaque.
The visual brilliance is complemented by powerful performances. Justice Smith & Brigette Lundy-Paine deliver nuanced portrayals of their characters, capturing the complexities of teenage angst & the fragile beauty of their bond. Their performances add depth to the film’s narrative, making Owen & Maddy’s journey both relatable & heart-wrenching.
Nostalgia with a Twist
For those who grew up in the 90s, The Pink Opaque will feel eerily familiar. The show within the movie is a clear nod to Are You Afraid of the Dark?, a beloved staple of 90s childhood. This layer of nostalgia is intricately woven into the film, evoking a sense of recognition & nostalgia for viewers who remember the era fondly.
However, I Saw The TV Glow is not content to rely solely on nostalgic charm. The film uses its 90s references as a foundation to build a deeper narrative about loss, identity, & the search for connection. It’s a clever blend of past & present, using familiar elements to tell a story that feels both timeless & contemporary.
While I Saw The TV Glow shines in many areas, it’s not without its flaws. The film’s abstract nature & complex themes might be too opaque for some viewers. Its tendency to blur the line between reality & fantasy can make the narrative challenging to follow, potentially alienating those who prefer a more straightforward approach to storytelling.
Yet, for those willing to embrace its eccentricities, the film offers a rich, thought-provoking experience. Its unique approach to the elevated horror genre sets it apart, making it a notable addition despite its occasional growing pains.
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