At the heart of "Control Freak," a chilling new release on Hulu, lies an unsettling yet universally relatable concept: the torment of an unrelenting itch. The film stars Kelly Marie Tran as Val, a motivational speaker whose life spirals into chaos due to an incessant itch at the back of her head. No matter what measures she takes—bandages, hats, or even tying down her hands during sleep—the relentless sensation continues to gnaw at her both physically and mentally. This disturbing condition not only disrupts her daily routine but also summons a sinister force into her otherwise orderly world.

Underneath its supernatural elements, "Control Freak" delves deep into psychological territory. Written and directed by Shal Ngo, the movie explores how Val's torment stems from unresolved issues tied to her family’s history. Specifically, it reflects the generational trauma experienced by her parents fleeing war-torn Vietnam. Beyond the horror aspect, the itch symbolizes Val's buried anxieties surfacing despite her efforts to suppress them. During an interview with Polygon, Tran revealed the intense demands of portraying such a complex character over 22 grueling days of filming. Despite the challenges, she found the role transformative, acknowledging both the joy and hardship involved in bringing Val to life.

The origins of this cinematic nightmare trace back to a disturbing real-life case documented in The New Yorker, involving a woman who scratched through her skull. Inspired by this tale, Ngo crafted a story blending body horror with personal introspection. Initially considering a more scientific approach, he ultimately chose to incorporate aspects of self-help satire and cultural folklore. Drawing inspiration from East Asian legends, Ngo reimagined ancient myths about insatiable demons to fit within a Vietnamese context. Furthermore, the film addresses immigrant experiences, particularly those of Vietnamese Americans, resonating deeply with Tran, whose own background mirrors Val's journey. Through exploring themes of identity and heritage, "Control Freak" transcends traditional horror tropes, offering viewers a thought-provoking narrative rooted in authenticity and emotional depth.