Released in 2013, “Under the Skin” is a sci-fi thriller directed by Jonathan Glazer and starring Scarlett Johansson. The film follows an alien who takes on the form of a human woman as she preys on men in Scotland. With its haunting atmosphere and thought-provoking themes, “Under the Skin” has captivated audiences and critics alike. In this blog post, we will take a deep dive into the movie’s impact and legacy, exploring its critical reception, cinematic techniques, cultural influence, themes and symbolism, and lasting influence on modern cinema.
Plot Overview
“Under the Skin” tells the story of an unnamed alien who takes on the form of a seductive human woman (Scarlett Johansson) in order to lure and prey on unsuspecting men. The alien drives around Scotland in a white van, picking up men and leading them to a mysterious black void where they are consumed. As the alien goes about her mission, she becomes more and more fascinated with humanity and begins to question her own purpose.
The film’s plot is intentionally sparse, leaving much up to interpretation and allowing viewers to fill in the gaps with their own thoughts and ideas. This open-ended approach to storytelling adds to the film’s unsettling atmosphere and makes it a thought-provoking watch.
At its core, “Under the Skin” explores themes of identity, gender, and alienation. The alien, who is initially cold and calculating, begins to embrace her humanity and develop emotions as she interacts with different men. She starts to question her own existence and her actions, ultimately leading to a powerful and unexpected climax.
Critical Reception
Upon its release, “Under the Skin” received mixed reviews from critics. While many praised its eerie atmosphere and thought-provoking themes, others found it slow-paced and confusing. However, as time has passed, the film has gained a cult following and is now considered a modern sci-fi masterpiece.
In his review for The Guardian, Peter Bradshaw described the film as “disturbing, dreamlike and brilliantly bizarre.” He praised Johansson’s performance, stating that she “conveys an alien coldness that also has something admirably insouciant and curious about it.” Other critics also praised Johansson’s performance, noting her ability to convey both seductiveness and detachment in her role as the alien.
The film’s direction and cinematography were also highly praised. Glazer’s use of natural lighting and non-actors in some scenes added to the film’s realistic feel and made it all the more unsettling. The score, composed by Mica Levi, was also noted for its haunting and otherworldly quality.
Cinematic Techniques
“Under the Skin” stands out for its unique and visually stunning cinematic techniques. Director Jonathan Glazer took a bold and unconventional approach to filming the movie, which greatly contributed to its impact and lasting legacy.
One of the most notable techniques used in the film is the mixture of scripted dialogue and interactions with real people who were not aware they were being filmed. This adds a sense of realism and unpredictability to the film, as well as giving viewers a glimpse into the lives and personalities of everyday people.
Another technique that stands out in “Under the Skin” is the use of natural lighting. Many scenes take place in low-light or nighttime settings, adding to the film’s eerie and otherworldly atmosphere. Glazer also employed a handheld camera to give viewers a sense of unease and disorientation, mirroring the alien’s own experiences as she navigates through human society.
The film’s score and sound design also play a crucial role in creating its unsettling atmosphere. Composer Mica Levi used a variety of instruments and techniques to create a discordant and eerie soundtrack, perfectly complimenting the film’s visuals and adding to its overall impact.
Scarlett Johansson’s Performance
One of the most talked-about aspects of “Under the Skin” is Scarlett Johansson’s performance as the alien. The role was a departure from her usual roles as a leading lady and required her to portray a complex and detached character. Johansson’s performance has been widely praised and is considered one of the best of her career.
In an interview with The Guardian, Johansson spoke about her approach to playing the alien: “I had to see things through her eyes. It wasn’t so much that I saw myself as a man-eating alien, but that I saw myself as someone who is experiencing things for the first time.”
Johansson’s performance is a major reason why the film has such a lasting impact on viewers. She effectively conveys the alien’s journey from cold and calculating to curious and emotional, making her a relatable and sympathetic character despite her actions.
Cultural Impact
“Under the Skin” has had a significant influence on popular culture and the sci-fi genre. Its unique and thought-provoking approach to storytelling has inspired other filmmakers and artists, leading to a resurgence of slow-paced and atmospheric science fiction films.
The film’s themes of identity and gender have also sparked discussions and interpretations among audiences. Some view the alien as a representation of society’s expectations of women, while others see her as a commentary on the dangers of objectification and sexualization. The film has even been studied in academic courses, further solidifying its cultural significance.
Themes and Symbolism
At its core, “Under the Skin” is a film about identity and alienation. The alien, who takes on a human form, struggles with her own sense of self and purpose. Through her interactions with different men, she begins to question what it means to be human and the consequences of losing one’s identity.
The film also explores themes of gender, particularly the objectification and sexualization of women. Through the alien’s seductive nature and her victims’ reactions to her, the film comments on society’s expectations of women and the consequences of reducing them to mere objects of desire.
Symbolism is also prevalent throughout the film, with the white van representing the alien’s predatory nature and the black void symbolizing her home planet. The use of mirrors and reflections also plays a significant role in the film, further exploring the concept of identity and the idea of seeing oneself in others.
Legacy and Influence
“Under the Skin” has had a lasting impact on modern cinema, with its influence seen in other films and media. Its slow-paced and atmospheric style has inspired directors such as Denis Villeneuve and Ari Aster, who have cited the film as an influence on their work.
The film’s unique approach to storytelling and use of natural lighting and non-actors has also been adopted by other filmmakers. Its impact on the sci-fi genre is undeniable, with many critics and fans considering it a modern masterpiece in the genre.
Conclusion
“Under the Skin” may not be a film for everyone, with its slow pace and open-ended approach to storytelling. However, those who appreciate its haunting atmosphere and thought-provoking themes will find it to be a cinematic masterpiece. With its unique cinematic techniques, standout performances, and lasting cultural influence, “Under the Skin” has solidified its place in modern cinema and continues to captivate audiences years after its release.