If you’re a fan of movies that challenge your perception of identity, morality, and human nature, then Greg Jardin’s 2024 film, “It’s What’s Inside,” is a must-watch. Now streaming on Netflix, this film is a masterful blend of sci-fi, psychological thriller, and dark comedy, wrapped in a stylish package that keeps viewers guessing from start to finish. Jardin’s debut feature is not just entertainment; it’s a mirror held up to our deepest fears and desires about who we are—and who we could become.
Plot Summary: A Night of Secrets and Surprises
The story kicks off with a seemingly simple premise: a group of close-knit college friends gather at a remote, luxurious house to celebrate a wedding. The mood is initially jovial, filled with laughter, drinks, and reminiscing. However, things take a sharp turn when Forbes, an enigmatic former classmate, arrives unexpectedly with a peculiar suitcase. Inside is a device that appears to be some sort of experimental technology capable of body-swapping.
What begins as a playful experiment quickly spirals into chaos. The friends, eager to test the device, start swapping bodies—initially as a joke, but soon realizing that the technology’s implications are far more dangerous. As identities blur and secrets surface, the characters’ true selves—hidden beneath layers of social masks—are revealed in shocking ways. Trust erodes, alliances shift, and the line between friend and foe becomes dangerously thin.
Themes and Symbolism: Beyond the Surface
At its core, “It’s What’s Inside” explores the human obsession with identity and the allure of escaping one’s reality. The body-swapping device serves as a metaphor for the desire to reinvent oneself, to escape past mistakes, or to indulge in forbidden fantasies. But Jardin doesn’t shy away from the darker side of this temptation—the loss of self-control, the moral dilemmas, and the destructive potential of unchecked ambition.
Throughout the film, there’s a recurring motif of masks—literal and figurative. Characters wear masks to hide their true intentions, and the body-swapping acts as a literal unmasking of their inner selves. The film raises provocative questions: If you could be someone else, would you? And at what cost?
Visual Style and Direction: A Feast for the Eyes
Kevin Fletcher’s cinematography is a standout feature, capturing both the intimacy and chaos of the story. The use of tight close-ups intensifies the characters’ emotional turmoil, while wide shots of the secluded house create a sense of isolation and claustrophobia. Jardin’s direction balances moments of humor and horror seamlessly, maintaining a tone that’s both unsettling and darkly amusing.
The film’s production design complements its themes beautifully—sleek, modern interiors juxtaposed with the raw, unpredictable nature of the device’s effects. Andrew Hewitt’s haunting score amplifies the suspense, heightening tension during key moments and underscoring the film’s philosophical undercurrents.
Performances: A Strong Ensemble Cast
The cast delivers compelling performances across the board. Brittany O’Grady shines as Emma, a character grappling with her own insecurities and hidden ambitions. James Morosini’s portrayal of Alex adds layers of vulnerability and desperation, making his character’s arc particularly poignant. Alycia Debnam-Carey provides a chilling yet relatable performance as Sarah, whose moral compass is tested to its limits.
What elevates the film is how each actor navigates the complex emotional terrain of their characters, making the audience genuinely invested in their fates. The chemistry and tension among the cast members make every scene resonate with authenticity, even amidst the film’s more surreal moments.
Pacing and Narrative Structure: Engaging but Complex
While the film’s narrative is engaging, it’s also intricate and layered. Jardin employs a non-linear storytelling approach, shifting perspectives and timelines to keep viewers on their toes. This structure demands your full attention, rewarding viewers who enjoy piecing together clues and deciphering the unfolding mystery.
However, some may find the story’s complexity a bit overwhelming or convoluted, especially during the climax where multiple twists unfold rapidly. Nonetheless, this approach aligns well with the film’s themes—identity is fluid, and certainty is elusive.
Final Verdict: A Must-Watch for Thoughtful Sci-Fi Fans
“It’s What’s Inside” is a bold, inventive film that pushes boundaries both visually and thematically. It’s a cerebral thriller that invites viewers to reflect on the nature of selfhood, morality, and the consequences of technological hubris. While it may not appeal to those seeking straightforward horror or comedy, it’s a rewarding experience for those willing to engage with its layered storytelling.
The film’s blend of stylish visuals, compelling performances, and provocative themes makes it one of the standout releases of 2024. It’s a film that lingers long after the credits roll, prompting questions about what truly defines us—and what we’re willing to sacrifice to become someone else.
Rating: 4/5
“It’s What’s Inside” is a thought-provoking, visually stunning, and emotionally charged thriller that challenges perceptions and explores the depths of human nature. Highly recommended for fans of intelligent sci-fi, psychological dramas, and anyone intrigued by the mysteries lurking beneath the surface of identity.
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