Films sharing characteristics with It Follows often feature a sense of creeping dread, a relentless supernatural threat, and a focus on psychological horror rather than jump scares. These films typically explore themes of paranoia, sexual anxiety, and the consequences of actions. Examples include films that employ slow-burn suspense, ambiguous antagonists, and a dreamlike or surreal atmosphere.
This subgenre taps into primal fears and anxieties, offering a unique and unsettling viewing experience. The slow-building tension and atmospheric dread create a sustained sense of unease, prompting reflection on deeper themes. The popularity of such films reflects a growing audience appreciation for nuanced horror that prioritizes atmosphere and psychological impact over explicit gore. This style has roots in classic horror cinema but has seen a resurgence in recent years.
This exploration of thematic and stylistic similarities provides a framework for understanding the appeal of these films. Further analysis will delve into specific examples, examining the nuances of each film and their relationship to the broader genre.
1. Supernatural Threat
The supernatural threat in films akin to It Follows distinguishes them from traditional slasher or monster movies. The antagonist is often an unseen force, a malevolent presence that operates outside the realm of logic and conventional understanding. This ambiguity heightens the fear and paranoia, as the characters (and the audience) struggle to comprehend and combat the threat. The threat’s supernatural nature also allows for a blurring of boundaries between reality and nightmare, contributing to the overall unsettling atmosphere. Consider The Ring, where a cursed videotape brings a vengeful spirit into the viewer’s world, or Lake Mungo, where a family’s grief opens a door to a haunting presence. These films, like It Follows, utilize the supernatural not for shock value, but to explore deeper anxieties about mortality, the unknown, and the fragility of reality.
This ambiguity regarding the nature of the threat allows for a more psychological exploration of horror. Because the threat cannot be easily defined or confronted, the focus shifts to the characters’ internal struggles and the psychological toll of the relentless pursuit. The fear stems not just from the threat itself, but from the uncertainty and powerlessness it generates. This resonates with real-life anxieties about unseen forces, whether they be societal pressures, disease, or the unknown future. The unseen, relentless nature of the threat in It Follows and similar films elevates the narrative beyond simple scares and into a chilling exploration of existential dread. This is further exemplified in films like Audition, where the seemingly normal veneer of reality gradually unravels to reveal a disturbing and violent undercurrent.
The supernatural threat serves as a catalyst for exploring deeper thematic concerns within these films. It forces characters to confront their vulnerabilities and anxieties, often within the context of social and cultural norms. The ambiguity of the threat reinforces the sense of unease and allows the film to resonate on a more profound level, prompting reflection on the nature of fear itself. This exploration of the psychological impact of an invisible, relentless force contributes to the enduring power and appeal of these films.
2. Relentless Pursuit
The concept of relentless pursuit forms a cornerstone of the horror experience in films like It Follows. This constant, inescapable threat creates a sustained sense of dread and paranoia, distinguishing it from traditional horror narratives where the danger often comes in bursts. The pursued characters experience no respite, no safe haven, leading to a psychological unraveling that mirrors real-life anxieties about persistent threats like illness or financial ruin. The relentless nature of the pursuit denies the characters (and the audience) the catharsis of a clear resolution, leaving them in a state of perpetual unease. This unending chase, a key feature of It Follows, contributes significantly to the film’s disturbing atmosphere, mirroring the inescapable nature of trauma or deep-seated fear. Examples such as The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, while featuring a more tangible antagonist, demonstrate a similar relentless pursuit that amplifies the terror. The victim’s constant awareness of being hunted, even when the pursuer is not visible, creates a palpable sense of dread.
The impact of this relentless pursuit transcends mere jump scares, delving into the psychological effects of constant pressure and fear. The characters exhaustion, desperation, and gradual loss of control become central to the narrative. This psychological dimension distinguishes these films from more conventional horror, where the focus often remains on physical violence. This aspect resonates with viewers on a deeper level, tapping into primal fears of being hunted or stalked. The effectiveness of this technique lies in its universality; the feeling of being pursued, whether by a tangible threat or an abstract anxiety, is a shared human experience. Films like The Shining further exemplify this, where the isolation and the growing sense of an unseen presence contribute to the protagonists descent into madness.
Understanding the role of relentless pursuit in creating sustained tension is crucial for appreciating the impact of films like It Follows. This element, combined with other thematic and stylistic choices, creates a unique brand of psychological horror that lingers long after the credits roll. The sustained pressure and the inability to escape the threat generate an atmosphere of dread that transcends the immediate narrative, reflecting deeper anxieties about the human condition. The challenges posed by depicting such relentless pursuit lie in maintaining tension without resorting to cheap thrills. Films that successfully employ this technique, however, offer a profound exploration of fear and vulnerability, making them compelling and disturbing in equal measure. This exploration of relentless pursuit adds another layer to the analysis of contemporary horror and its ability to tap into deep-seated human anxieties.
3. Sexual Anxiety
Sexual anxiety plays a crucial role in shaping the narrative and thematic resonance of films like It Follows. The association of the supernatural threat with sexual transmission introduces a layer of unease and paranoia that transcends traditional horror tropes. This connection taps into deep-seated societal anxieties surrounding sex, morality, and consequence. The fear isn’t merely about a physical threat but also about the social and emotional ramifications of sexual activity. This theme resonates particularly strongly with younger audiences navigating the complexities of sexual awakening and the anxieties that accompany it. The film’s exploration of sexual anxiety is not explicit but rather implied through the narrative structure and the nature of the pursuing entity. This subtlety allows for a more nuanced and unsettling exploration of the theme, prompting reflection on the societal pressures and anxieties surrounding sexual experience. This can be seen in other films exploring similar themes, such as Teeth, where female sexuality is presented as both powerful and dangerous. By linking the supernatural threat to sexual activity, these films explore the vulnerabilities and anxieties associated with intimacy and the potential consequences of choices made within that realm.
The metaphorical weight of this connection elevates the horror beyond simple scares. The film becomes a reflection of societal anxieties surrounding sexual health, consent, and the potential for lasting consequences from intimate encounters. This symbolic representation adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, prompting viewers to consider the broader implications of the film’s premise. The ambiguity surrounding the nature of the threat and its connection to sexual activity allows for a more personalized interpretation of the film’s message. This ambiguity can be unsettling but also allows for a deeper engagement with the themes presented. Similar themes of sexual guilt and paranoia are explored in films like Possession, where the breakdown of a marriage manifests in terrifying and surreal ways. By using the supernatural as a vehicle for exploring these anxieties, the films create a powerful and often disturbing commentary on the complexities of human relationships and the societal pressures surrounding intimacy.
In conclusion, the portrayal of sexual anxiety in films like It Follows adds a significant dimension to the horror genre. By linking the supernatural threat to the anxieties surrounding sexuality, the film creates a more profound and unsettling experience that resonates with audiences on a deeper level. This exploration of sexual anxiety is not merely gratuitous but serves as a powerful metaphor for the vulnerabilities and anxieties associated with intimacy and the potential consequences of choices made within that realm. The film’s ability to tap into these anxieties contributes to its enduring power and its relevance within the broader cultural landscape. The challenges posed by depicting such sensitive themes lie in maintaining a balance between exploration and exploitation. Films that successfully navigate this balance, however, offer a unique and valuable contribution to the horror genre, prompting critical reflection on societal attitudes towards sexuality and the anxieties that shape human experience.
4. Paranoia, Dread
Paranoia and dread are integral to the psychological horror experience offered by films like It Follows. These films effectively utilize these emotions to create a sustained sense of unease and vulnerability, moving beyond traditional jump scares to explore the insidious nature of unseen threats and the psychological toll they take on individuals.
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Constant Threat:
The ever-present nature of the threat, often unseen or ambiguous, fuels paranoia. Characters (and viewers) are constantly on edge, questioning the reality around them and searching for signs of the impending danger. This mirrors real-life anxieties where the source of fear remains elusive, such as generalized anxiety disorder or social anxieties. In It Follows, the constant threat of the pursuing entity creates a pervasive sense of paranoia that permeates every aspect of the characters’ lives. Similarly, in The Invisible Man, the unseen antagonist’s presence fuels the protagonist’s paranoia and descent into madness.
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Psychological Unraveling:
The sustained paranoia induced by the relentless threat leads to a gradual psychological unraveling. Characters become increasingly isolated, distrustful, and prone to erratic behavior. This psychological deterioration becomes a central focus of the narrative, mirroring the real-life impact of chronic stress and anxiety. The protagonist’s descent into madness in Repulsion exemplifies this, as her paranoia and hallucinations escalate within the confines of her apartment. Similarly, in It Follows, the characters’ increasing desperation and paranoia highlight the psychological toll of the relentless pursuit.
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Atmosphere of Dread:
The combined effect of paranoia and the anticipation of an unknown horror creates a palpable atmosphere of dread. This dread permeates the narrative, influencing not only the characters’ actions but also the viewers’ experience. The film’s pacing, sound design, and visuals all contribute to this pervasive sense of unease. Films like The Witch excel in creating a slow-burning atmosphere of dread that permeates every scene. The isolation of the family and the encroaching evil contribute to a constant sense of impending doom, mirroring the sustained tension in It Follows.
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Loss of Control:
The inability to fully understand or control the threat amplifies both the paranoia and the dread. Characters are stripped of their agency, forced into a reactive state where they are constantly trying to anticipate and evade the unknown danger. This loss of control taps into fundamental human anxieties about vulnerability and powerlessness in the face of larger forces. The characters in The Thing experience this loss of control as they become increasingly paranoid and unable to distinguish between friend and foe. Similarly, the characters in It Follows are constantly trying to escape a threat they can barely comprehend, highlighting the pervasive sense of powerlessness.
These interconnected elements of paranoia and dread contribute significantly to the unique impact of films like It Follows. By focusing on the psychological impact of unseen threats and the characters’ gradual unraveling, these films explore deeper anxieties about vulnerability, loss of control, and the fragility of reality. This exploration transcends simple scares, offering a chilling and thought-provoking commentary on the human condition.
5. Slow-burn Suspense
Slow-burn suspense is a defining characteristic of films like It Follows, contributing significantly to their unsettling atmosphere and psychological impact. Rather than relying on jump scares or immediate threats, these films cultivate tension gradually, allowing dread to accumulate over time. This technique mirrors the way real-life anxieties often build slowly, permeating daily life and creating a constant state of unease. The slow-burn approach allows for a deeper exploration of the characters’ psychological states as they grapple with the encroaching threat. This gradual escalation of tension creates a more profound and lasting sense of dread compared to the fleeting shock of a jump scare. Consider the mounting paranoia in The Silence of the Lambs, where the audience is privy to the meticulous planning and manipulation of Hannibal Lecter, creating a constant sense of impending danger. Similarly, in It Follows, the slow, relentless approach of the pursuing entity amplifies the feeling of inescapable dread. This technique allows the film to explore not just the external threat but also the internal struggles of the characters as they confront their fears and anxieties.
The effectiveness of slow-burn suspense lies in its ability to tap into primal fears and anxieties. The sustained tension mimics the experience of real-life threats that often unfold gradually, such as the progression of an illness or the looming threat of financial ruin. This approach allows the film to resonate with audiences on a deeper level, exploring the psychological impact of prolonged stress and uncertainty. The gradual revelation of information, the subtle cues and foreshadowing, and the growing sense of unease all contribute to a more immersive and disturbing experience. Films like Rosemary’s Baby masterfully employ this technique, creating a sense of paranoia and dread that builds slowly as the protagonist begins to question the reality around her. The lack of immediate resolution forces the audience to confront their own anxieties and interpretations of the unfolding events, mirroring the experience of the characters within the film.
In conclusion, slow-burn suspense serves as a crucial component in the effectiveness of films like It Follows. This technique allows for a more nuanced exploration of psychological horror, moving beyond cheap thrills to create a truly unsettling and thought-provoking experience. The challenges inherent in crafting slow-burn suspense lie in maintaining audience engagement without resorting to excessive exposition or predictable plot twists. Films that successfully utilize this technique, however, offer a rewarding and disturbing exploration of fear, paranoia, and the fragility of the human psyche. The slow-burn approach allows the film to transcend the limitations of conventional horror narratives, prompting reflection on the nature of fear itself and its impact on the human experience.
6. Dreamlike Atmosphere
The dreamlike atmosphere prevalent in films like It Follows significantly contributes to their unsettling nature and lasting impact. This quality blurs the lines between reality and nightmare, fostering a sense of disorientation and unease that amplifies the psychological horror. The ambiguity inherent in dreamlike narratives allows for a deeper exploration of subconscious fears and anxieties, enhancing the film’s thematic resonance.
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Surreal Imagery and Sound Design:
Distorted visuals, unsettling sound design, and non-linear narratives create a sense of unreality, mimicking the illogical nature of dreams. This disorientation enhances the viewer’s vulnerability, mirroring the characters’ struggle to comprehend the threat they face. The use of jarring sound effects in Eraserhead, coupled with its surreal visuals, creates a nightmarish landscape that reflects the protagonist’s internal anxieties. Similarly, the distorted reality presented in It Follows contributes to the overall sense of dread and uncertainty.
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Heightened Emotional States:
Dreamlike atmospheres often amplify emotional experiences, making fear, paranoia, and anxiety more potent. This heightened emotional state resonates with the viewer on a visceral level, blurring the line between the characters’ experiences and the audience’s own emotional response. The intense emotional landscape of Mulholland Drive, characterized by shifting identities and paranoia, mirrors the dreamlike atmosphere, creating a sense of unease and psychological instability that resonates with the viewer. Similarly, the heightened sense of fear and paranoia in It Follows is amplified by the film’s dreamlike qualities.
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Ambiguity and Uncertainty:
The lack of clear explanations and resolutions, a hallmark of dreamlike narratives, contributes to the overall sense of unease and mystery. This ambiguity allows for a more personalized interpretation of the film’s themes, prompting reflection on the nature of fear and the unknown. The ambiguous ending of The Blair Witch Project, coupled with the film’s found-footage format, contributes to the unsettling and dreamlike atmosphere, leaving the viewer with lingering questions and a sense of unease. Similarly, the unresolved nature of the threat in It Follows enhances the film’s disturbing ambiguity.
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Suspension of Disbelief:
The dreamlike atmosphere fosters a suspension of disbelief, allowing viewers to accept illogical events and heightened emotional states as part of the film’s internal reality. This acceptance of the unreal enhances the impact of the horror, as the viewer becomes more immersed in the film’s unsettling world. The surreal and often illogical events in Donnie Darko are accepted within the context of the film’s dreamlike atmosphere, creating a sense of unease and mystery that draws the viewer deeper into the narrative. Similarly, the suspension of disbelief required to accept the premise of It Follows allows the film’s unsettling atmosphere to resonate more deeply.
These elements combine to create a distinct cinematic experience that distinguishes films like It Follows from more conventional horror narratives. The dreamlike atmosphere fosters a deeper engagement with the film’s themes, prompting reflection on the nature of fear, anxiety, and the fragility of reality. The effectiveness of this technique lies in its ability to tap into the subconscious, creating a lasting sense of unease that transcends the immediate viewing experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding films sharing thematic and stylistic elements with It Follows.
Question 1: What defines the specific appeal of these films?
The appeal often stems from the exploration of primal anxieties, particularly those surrounding mortality, the unknown, and the consequences of actions. The slow-burn suspense and atmospheric dread contribute to a uniquely unsettling experience.
Question 2: Are these films excessively reliant on jump scares?
Generally, no. Emphasis is typically placed on psychological horror, creating sustained tension and dread rather than relying on sudden shocks. The fear derives from atmosphere, implication, and the characters’ psychological unraveling.
Question 3: What thematic elements connect these films?
Common themes include paranoia, sexual anxiety, the fragility of reality, and the inescapable nature of trauma or deep-seated fear. These themes are often explored through allegorical narratives and symbolic imagery.
Question 4: Beyond It Follows, what are some key examples of this subgenre?
Examples include The Babadook, A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night, The Ring, Lake Mungo, Audition, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, The Shining, Teeth, Possession, Repulsion, The Witch, The Thing, The Invisible Man, The Silence of the Lambs, Rosemary’s Baby, Eraserhead, Mulholland Drive, The Blair Witch Project, and Donnie Darko. These films, while diverse, share core elements that contribute to a distinct style of psychological horror.
Question 5: Why is the “slow-burn” technique effective in these films?
Slow-burn suspense allows for a gradual escalation of tension, mirroring the way real-life anxieties often develop. This approach creates a more profound and lasting sense of dread, enhancing the psychological impact of the narrative.
Question 6: How does the dreamlike atmosphere contribute to the horror?
The dreamlike atmosphere blurs the lines between reality and nightmare, amplifying the sense of disorientation and unease. This ambiguity enhances the psychological horror by tapping into subconscious fears and anxieties, making the experience more unsettling and memorable.
Understanding these frequently asked questions provides a deeper appreciation for the nuances and complexities of this particular style of psychological horror. These films offer a unique exploration of fear, anxiety, and the human condition, prompting reflection and discussion beyond the immediate viewing experience.
Further exploration will delve into individual film analyses and critical interpretations of the genre’s evolution.
Tips for Finding Similar Films
Locating films with a similar tone and thematic resonance to It Follows requires considering specific criteria beyond basic genre classifications. These tips provide guidance for navigating the landscape of psychological horror and identifying films that offer a comparable viewing experience.
Tip 1: Prioritize Atmosphere and Tone: Seek films that emphasize atmosphere and dread over explicit gore or jump scares. Look for descriptions highlighting “slow-burn suspense,” “psychological thriller,” or “atmospheric horror.” Examples include The Witch and A Ghost Story.
Tip 2: Explore Themes of Dread and Paranoia: Focus on films exploring themes of paranoia, existential dread, and the fragility of reality. Consider narratives dealing with unseen threats, psychological unraveling, or ambiguous antagonists. Repulsion and The Others exemplify this.
Tip 3: Consider Films with a Dreamlike Quality: Explore films with surreal imagery, distorted sound design, or non-linear narratives. These dreamlike qualities often enhance the psychological impact and create a more unsettling atmosphere. Carnival of Souls and Enemy demonstrate this approach.
Tip 4: Research Directors and Writers: Investigate the filmographies of directors and writers known for psychological horror or slow-burn suspense. This can lead to discovering lesser-known gems with similar thematic and stylistic elements. Exploring the works of David Lynch or Jennifer Kent, for example, can uncover further recommendations.
Tip 5: Utilize Online Resources and Communities: Leverage online film databases, review sites, and forums dedicated to horror cinema. These platforms offer curated lists, recommendations, and discussions that can help identify films sharing specific characteristics with It Follows. Letterboxd and Reddit’s horror communities offer valuable insights.
Tip 6: Look Beyond Traditional Horror Classifications: Consider films outside the strict horror genre. Thrillers, dramas, and even science fiction films can incorporate elements of psychological horror and slow-burn suspense. The Invitation and The Machinist exemplify this crossover.
By employing these strategies, film enthusiasts can effectively navigate the vast landscape of cinema and discover films that offer a similar viewing experience to It Follows. The key lies in prioritizing atmosphere, thematic resonance, and stylistic choices over traditional genre classifications.
These tips provide a starting point for further exploration of psychological horror and the diverse range of films that contribute to this compelling and unsettling subgenre. This exploration culminates in a deeper appreciation for the nuances of horror and its ability to reflect and explore complex human anxieties.
Movies Like It Follows: A Conclusion
Exploration of films sharing stylistic and thematic elements with It Follows reveals a distinct subgenre within psychological horror. Key characteristics include slow-burn suspense, dreamlike atmospheres, and thematic explorations of paranoia, sexual anxiety, and the consequences of actions. The power of these films derives from their ability to tap into primal fears and anxieties, creating a sustained sense of unease and dread that lingers long after the credits roll. The focus on psychological impact over explicit gore distinguishes these narratives, prompting reflection on the fragility of reality and the complexities of the human condition.
The enduring appeal of films like It Follows suggests a growing audience appreciation for nuanced horror that prioritizes atmosphere and psychological depth. Further exploration of this subgenre promises a deeper understanding of contemporary horror trends and the evolving ways in which cinema can explore and reflect fundamental human anxieties. This ongoing evolution within the genre necessitates continuous critical analysis and thoughtful engagement with the films that push the boundaries of psychological horror.
