I Saw the TV Glow ★★☆☆☆
A24’s latest venture into the surreal, “I Saw the TV Glow,” directed by Jane Schoenbrun, attempts to blend 90s nostalgia with a coming-of-age narrative. The film follows Owen (Justice Smith) and Maddy (Brigette Lundy-Paine), two suburban teens who become obsessed with a mysterious late-night TV show, “The Pink Opaque.” As their fixation deepens, the line between reality and television blurs, leading to a series of increasingly bizarre events.
At its core, the film seems to explore themes of identity, escapism, and the impact of media on youth. However, these themes are often overshadowed by a convoluted plot and erratic storytelling. The narrative jumps through time in a manner that feels more disorienting than deliberate, leaving viewers grasping for coherence.
Visually, the film embraces a campy aesthetic reminiscent of 90s television, complete with exaggerated set designs and over-the-top costumes. While this might be intended as homage, it often comes across as forced and detracts from the film’s intended depth. The direction lacks the subtlety needed to balance homage with originality, resulting in a pastiche that feels more derivative than innovative.
The performances are a mixed bag. Smith and Lundy-Paine deliver earnest portrayals of their teenage characters, but the script offers them little to work with. The decision to have the same actors portray their characters into their 40s and 50s is particularly jarring, with minimal effort made to age them convincingly. This choice not only strains believability but also undermines the emotional weight of their character arcs.
Pacing is another significant issue. The film meanders through its 100-minute runtime, with scenes that feel repetitive and indulgent. The lack of a clear narrative drive makes it challenging to stay engaged, and the climactic moments fail to deliver the intended impact.
On a personal note, while the film’s exploration of media’s influence on identity is a relevant topic, its execution leaves much to be desired. The potential for a poignant commentary is buried beneath layers of eccentric plot points and stylistic choices that prioritize form over substance.
“I Saw the TV Glow” is a film that aspires to be a thought-provoking exploration of youth and media but falters in its execution. Its campy aesthetic, uninteresting characters, and clunky time jumps result in a viewing experience that is more perplexing than profound. While there may be a meaningful message hidden within, it’s obscured by the film’s overambitious and disjointed presentation.
