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What to watch: It’s raining horror movies — some are better than others
2024-10-02

Twisted Sleepover Turns Deadly: A Chilling Exploration of "It's What's Inside"

As the Halloween season approaches, a new crop of thrilling films has emerged to captivate audiences. Among them is "It's What's Inside," a mind-bending feature debut from director and screenwriter Greg Jardin. This brainy and clever tale delves into the dark underbelly of human relationships, where selfish lovers and jealous friends resort to cruel mind games.

Unraveling the Twisted Tapestry of "It's What's Inside"

A Pre-Wedding Gathering Gone Awry

A group of close-knit friends gather at the groom-to-be's (Devon Terrell) late mother's mansion the night before the wedding. As the party unfolds, old jealousies, long-simmering crushes, and deep-seated secrets come to the surface. The arrival of a techie inventor (David Thompson) and his latest creation – an electrode that can transfer souls between bodies – sets the stage for a twisted game of role-playing that takes a dark turn.As the friends indulge in this bizarre experiment, the lines between reality and fantasy begin to blur. The game, initially seen as harmless drunken fun, soon escalates, widening the already deep rift in the relationship between Shelby (Brittany O'Grady) and Cyrus (James Morosini). Jardin masterfully keeps the audience off-kilter throughout, with camera angles and narrative twists that defy convention.

Blurring the Lines of Genre

"It's What's Inside" defies easy categorization, leapfrogging between horror, sci-fi, and drama. Jardin's bold approach allows the film to explore the complexities of human nature, where selfishness, jealousy, and the desire for control can lead to devastating consequences. The ensemble cast delivers standout performances, adding depth and nuance to the characters' emotional journeys.Executive produced by Colman Domingo, the film's refusal to be confined by a single genre is both its strength and its challenge. Jardin's creative vision pushes the boundaries, creating a cinematic experience that is both unsettling and captivating. The audience is left to grapple with the moral implications of the characters' actions, as the film delves into the darker recesses of the human psyche.

A Cinematic Puzzle to Unravel

"It's What's Inside" is a cinematic puzzle that demands the viewer's full attention. Jardin's masterful storytelling and innovative approach to filmmaking create a viewing experience that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally charged. The film's ability to keep the audience guessing and off-balance is a testament to the director's skill, as he weaves a tapestry of intrigue and suspense.For those seeking a fresh and thought-provoking take on the horror genre, "It's What's Inside" is a must-see. The film's refusal to conform to traditional genre conventions, coupled with its talented ensemble cast and Jardin's bold directorial vision, make it a standout addition to the Halloween season's cinematic offerings.
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