Scarlett Johansson’s Eerie Sci-Fi Masterpiece “Under the Skin” Now Haunting Amazon Prime
A chilling and thought-provoking science fiction horror film starring Hollywood A-lister Scarlett Johansson has landed on Amazon Prime Video, offering a chance for audiences to experience its unique brand of dread once more. Directed by Jonathan Glazer, the 2013 feature, Under the Skin, plunges viewers into a surreal narrative following a shape-shifting extraterrestrial as she navigates the stark landscapes and unsuspecting populace of Scotland.
Johansson, renowned for her roles in blockbuster franchises, portrays an enigmatic alien entity referred to simply as ‘The Female’. Her mission, as depicted in the film, involves seducing lonely and isolated men. These encounters are not romantic trysts but predatory traps, luring her victims into a disorienting pocket dimension where they meet a grim and unsettling fate. The film’s cast, largely comprised of unknown actors, features Jeremy McWilliams as the menacing ‘The Bad Man’, Dougie McConnell as ‘Pick-Up Man’, and Kevin McAlinden in the tragically apt role of ‘First Victim’.
Adapted from the novel by Michel Faber, Under the Skin faced a challenging financial reception, failing to recoup its $13.3 million (£9.9 million) production budget. However, despite its commercial struggles, the film garnered significant critical acclaim. It currently holds an impressive 83% ‘fresh’ rating on Rotten Tomatoes, a testament to its artistic merit and enduring impact. Nearly thirteen years after its initial release, the film is now available for streaming, ready to once again burrow under the skin of its audience.
Critical Acclaim and Unforgettable Atmosphere
Upon its debut in 2014, Under the Skin was met with widespread critical praise. Publications lauded its originality and artistic vision. Deep Focus Review declared it “one of the most important sci-fi pictures in recent memory,” while New York Magazine described the film as “mesmerizing,” noting its ability to “cast an otherworldly spell” on the viewer. The Los Angeles Times hailed it as a “genesis moment” for filmmaking, with IONCinema praising its “surreal, scintillating, and unforgettably strange” qualities.
Scarlett Johansson’s performance was a particular highlight for many critics. Rolling Stone deemed her “phenomenal,” and the London Evening Standard commended her for being “disturbingly good” in her portrayal of the alien life form. Larushka Ivan-Zadeh, writing for a publication, labelled the film a “mysterious masterpiece,” characterising it as “intoxicatingly stylish” and “way too weird to win Oscars.”
While Under the Skin did not secure any Oscar nominations, it was recognised with several prestigious awards following its release. These included the London Film Critics Circle Award for British Film of the Year and the European Film Award for Best Soundtrack, underscoring its artistic and technical achievements.
A Polarising Audience Reception
Despite the overwhelming critical adoration, the film’s experimental and often abstract nature resulted in a more divided audience score. Rotten Tomatoes users rated it at a more lukewarm 55%. Some viewers found its pacing to be “slow,” its themes “depressingly pretentious,” and its narrative “remarkably vague.” However, a significant portion of the audience found themselves captivated by its peculiar charm and profound undertones.
Many fans lauded the film’s unique approach. Rotten Tomatoes user Freya described it as a “completely misunderstood masterpiece” that offers “an interesting twist on humanity and stereotypes in our modern society.” Ashley C, branding it a “must-see,” challenged the criticism of its slow pace, calling the viewing experience “life-changing.” User Chris O agreed, stating, “It’s WEIRD. But that’s good,” while Ryan D praised it as “one of the most unique sci-fi movies I have ever seen.” This dichotomy highlights the film’s power to provoke strong reactions and spark passionate debate amongst its viewers.
Johansson’s Immersive Filming Experience
During the film’s production, Scarlett Johansson spoke candidly about her immersive experience filming on the streets of Scotland. In a unique approach, director Jonathan Glazer and the crew would often hide, allowing Johansson, disguised, to engage with unsuspecting members of the public. This method of secretly filming allowed the Hollywood star to move through everyday environments largely unnoticed.
Johansson reflected on this anonymity, stating, “If people aren’t expecting you to be there, then you’re somehow not part of their reality.” She drew parallels between her own experiences with fame and the film’s themes of identity and perception. “I see some of the young actors and young celebrities today desperately trying to fit back into society, which I totally understand,” she commented. “But really, once you accept your fate as someone who’s a recognisable person, who’s no longer anonymous, I think you have a much easier time fitting in than if you are constantly trying to be ‘normal.'” This insight offers a fascinating glimpse into the psychological aspects of her performance and the film’s exploration of societal invisibility.
Under the Skin is now available to stream on Amazon Prime in the UK.
