I Saw The Tv Glow

Cast View all

	Justice Smith	Owen
	Brigette Lundy-Paine	Maddy
	Ian Foreman	Young Owen
	Helena Howard	Isabel
	Lindsey Jordan	Tara
	Danielle Deadwyler	Brenda
	Fred Durst	Frank
	Conner O'Malley	Dave
	Emma Portner	Mr. Melancholy
	Madaline Riley	Polo
	Amber Benson	Johnny Link's Mom
	Albert Birney	Mr. Sprinkly
	Michael C. Maronna	Neighbor 1
	Danny Tamberelli	Neighbor 2
	Timothy Griffin Allan	Lance
	Tyler Dean Flores	Cade
	Elizabeth Scopel	Drive-Thru Kid
	Marlyn Bandiero	Brenda's Friend
	Haley Dahl	Sloppy Jane Band Member
	Raina Block	Sloppy Jane Band Member
	Bailey Wollowitz	Sloppy Jane Band Member
	Lily Rothman	Sloppy Jane Band Member
	Phoebe Bridgers	Phoebe Bridgers
	Kris Esfandari	King Woman Band Member
	Wilson Flores	King Woman Band Member

Crew View all

Director	Dan Schoenbrun
Writer	Dan Schoenbrun
Producer	Jennifer DiLullo, Ali Herting, Sam Intili, Kevin Kelly, Dave McCary, Taylor Shung, Emma Stone, Sarah Winshall
Musician	Alex G
Photography	Eric Yue

Trailer

Edition details

Personal

Notes

My quick rating - 4.5/10. This is a film that intrigues with its premise but ultimately falters in execution. The poster promises a mesmerizing experience, and indeed, the movie does draw you in with its fascinating setup and atmospheric tension. Unfortunately, it leaves you hanging with a conclusion that feels abrupt and unsatisfying. The film's strength lies in its coming-of-age narrative. Teenager Owen (Justice Smith) played with vulnerability and naivety, navigates the trials of suburban life. His journey takes a surreal turn when a classmate introduces him to a mysterious late-night TV show, revealing a supernatural world that lurks beneath their mundane existence. This aspect of the film is handled with a delicate touch, capturing the confusion and excitement of adolescence. Brigette Lundy-Paine as Maddy acts this one with a touch of goth curiosity that is fitting for the role. The cinematography and production design deserve a mention. The eerie glow of the television screen and the unsettling ambiance create a visually compelling experience which is highlighted when the television shows are played. However, the horror elements, which should have been the backbone of the film, are a massive letdown. The scares are non-existent, and the tension dissipates as the plot progresses. What starts as a promising dive into the unknown ends up feeling more like a shallow paddling pool of clichés and missed opportunities. Mediocre acting further undermines the film's impact. While the young cast brings a genuine effort, their performances often fall flat, failing to evoke the necessary emotional depth. The symbolism, intended to add layers of meaning, is painted on too thickly, rendering it heavy-handed and obvious rather than subtle and thought-provoking. It is a well-made film that suffers from its own ambition. The coming-of-age storyline is compelling and earns the majority of the film's score. However, the horror elements disappoint, and the overall execution does not live up to the initial promise. Despite the hype, this movie ends up being a missed opportunity, more style than substance. If you’re drawn in by the premise, be prepared for a film that doesn’t fully deliver on its potential.

Tags

Links