Rating of
3/4
Admirable Nostalgic Effort
Unknown - wrote on 04/13/15
'It Follows' is a simplistic, stripped down horror film that combines elements of old and new cinema. The small story centers on a creative premise. It's a neat 'urban legend' setup that we've never seen before. The constant fear of being followed by this unknown entity creates an underlying paranoia that propels the slow pace in an unconventional way. This leads to a few well staged tense encounters. Gone are the annoying tropes of today's lame horror efforts, and in their place is a nostalgic atmosphere harkening back to cult flicks of the 70's and 80's. Everything from stylistic choices, to camerawork and synth music, permeate throughout. The 'Carpenter'-esc score is excellent! Easily my favorite aspect of the whole film. But, at times, the nostalgia factor felt a bit overbearing, even leading to blatant homage of iconic scenes. It took me out a couple of times. The supporting teens are hard to become invested in. Not for being dumb or annoying, but because of their low volumes of emotion. None interest much beyond our main character and the one who passed 'It' on to her. The give-and-take nature left me not as scared as I wanted from the suspense present. It ends up being a horror film that I admire for it's craftsmanship and creativity than it's ability to evoke fear. Horror enthusiasts will appreciate 'It Follows' most, while some others may get a decent thrill.
