Under the Skin
In Under the Skin, Scarlett Johansen is an alien creature in disguise that Walks around Scotland where she seduces and lures men into a great black void where they disappear forever. While doing so, she starts to feel emotions leading to a great internal struggle.
The film medidates on identity, perception, and the primal question of what it means to be human. A diologue free, Under the Skin tells the horror side of humanity through a blend of mesmerizing score that makes it feel more like a horror, sci-fi, or existential drama movie.
It has been regarded as the most innovative science fiction movie of the 21st century and still retains a huge cult following.
Cast and Crew
- The Woman / Alien: Scarlett Johansen
- The Biker (her unidentified handler): Jeremy McWilliams
- The Disfigured Man: Adam Pearson
Jonathan Glazer (Sexy Beast, Birth) uses a blend of real life unknowing people. So he directed this film in a more experimental and haunting way.
The score is done by Mica Levi, and like the rest of the film, is also one of the most praised for its artistry.
Self-Reflection
This is certainly not your average sci-fi picture. Unlike other films, Under the Skin is heavily focused on feel, atmosphere, and sounds, instead of having a coherent storyline. Glazer conceals exposition, compelling the spectators to respond at a profoundly imaginative and emotive stage.
Scarlett Johansson delivers one of her most haunting performances in this film; detached, numbing, but gradually hinting at change as her character starts to understand human tenderness. The images of isolation, sexuality, and violence are chillingly effective. The way it flips traditional gender dynamics by having Johansson’s character positioned as the predator instead of the prey is simply brilliant.
The deepest unsettling moment in the film is certainly the “black void” scenes, where Johansson’s victims sink deeper and deeper into nothingness — a perfect depiction of fate, emptiness, or something else altogether sinister.
Cultural Impact
- A Controversial Approach to Sci-Fi – As opposed to typical sci-fi pictures, Under the Skin favors atmosphere, silence, and ambiguity over a strong plot.
- Scarlett Johansson’s Most Distinct Performance – Moving away from typical Hollywood roles, Johansson gives an unrecognizable performance in an experimental drastic take on a feature film.
- Incorporation of Random People – Many interactions in this film were not scripted, with Johansson literally approaching strangers on the street, which creates an unnerving form of realism to the film.
- Predation & Identity: The film deals with the issue of gender, power relations, and humanity from a very disturbing view.
Final Verdict
Not all people will find Under the Skin appealing. It is slow paced and abstract, making it a little uncomfortable to watch. However, if you are into avant-garde films and like to think about the material long after it ends, this movie is for you.