On Feb. 28, the official trailer for A24’s upcoming horror film “I Saw the TV Glow” was released. Written and directed by Jane Schoenbrun, the plot follows the reality-bending life of teenager Owen once he begins watching a strange TV show with his classmate. The film stars Brigette Lundy-Paine and Justice Smith, with a current critic rating of 91% on Rotten Tomatoes.
A24 is known for its outlandish plots, mind-bending horror films and themes of navigating adolescence. The production company’s highest-ranking film is “Lady Bird.” Released in 2017, “Lady Bird” received a 99% on Rotten Tomatoes. While the film did not win any Academy Awards, it was nominated in five categories: “Best Actress”, “Best Picture”, “Best Director”, “Best Supporting Actress” and “Best Original Screenplay.” This film, alongside other A24 films, has been praised by critics and viewers alike for its relatability.
While the production company has seen immense success since its formation in 2012, 2022 was a particularly outstanding year for A24. Critically acclaimed films like “Everything Everywhere All At Once” and “Aftersun”, switched the company’s focus from psychological thrillers to themes that are sure to tug at heartstrings. Both movies follow the trials and tribulations of parent-child relationships, featuring the star-stacked casts of Michelle Yeoh, Ke Huy Quan and Paul Mescal.
In contrast to the praise A24 has received for its portrayal of complicated family dynamics, plenty of A24 movies have been ranked as some of the scariest films of all time. Earning a number two spot on IMDb’s list is “Hereditary”, a 2018 film directed by horror expert, Ari Aster. According to Rotten Tomatoes, “Hereditary uses its classic setup as the framework for a harrowing, uncommonly unsettling horror film whose cold touch lingers long beyond the closing credits.” Aster also famously directed another A24 film popular among horror fans: “Midsommar”, which was released in 2019.
Although these types of films might seem unfavorable to some, A24 horror films are especially popular among teens, including students at OHS. Senior Sadie Fox said, “Midsommar is a really unique movie. I enjoy how it’s not quite scary, but more eerie and unsettling which makes it very interesting.”
So far, “I Saw the TV Glow” has been living up to the high expectations set by its A24 predecessors. The film received a score of 100 from critics at The Film Stage, “Schoenbrun has crafted one of the most original, evocative, adventurous films of this decade.” A24 has proven countless times that they will not disappoint with their films. Schoenbrun’s “I Saw the TV Glow” will be released in theaters on May 3.
