Jonathan Glazer's 2013 science fiction film "Under the Skin," starring Scarlett Johansson, is now available to stream for free on the ad-supported platform Tubi. The film, which has garnered critical acclaim and appeared on various "best of the 21st century" lists, explores complex themes through its minimalist and unsettling narrative.
In "Under the Skin," Johansson portrays an unnamed alien entity that inhabits a human form, preying on lonely individuals in Scotland. The character lures unsuspecting men to a secluded location, where they disappear. While the 2000 novel by Michel Faber, on which the film is loosely based, explicitly details the alien's mission to abduct humans for an extraterrestrial delicacy, the film leaves much to interpretation.
The adaptation leans into an arthouse aesthetic, often described as Lynchian. It eschews traditional exposition, offering instead a nuanced portrayal of an alien experiencing human existence, or a commentary on sexuality, or a deep dive into existentialism. Johansson's character displays a detached fascination with the mundane aspects of her environment and her own body, performing her deadly task with an almost impersonal detachment.
The film's distinctive style contributes to its unique atmosphere. Extended periods of silence, the prominent use of music over dialogue, and unconventional camera angles, including shots captured with hidden cameras, create an immersive and often unnerving viewing experience. The cast, largely comprised of amateurs outside of Johansson, further enhances the film's documentary-like, almost alien reality show feel.
Despite its challenging nature and initial box office underperformance, "Under the Skin" has left a lasting impression on audiences and critics alike. Its lingering images and thought-provoking themes have cemented its status as a significant work in contemporary cinema.
"Under the Skin" can be viewed as part of an informal trilogy of films featuring Johansson that examine her public persona and career. "Her" (2013) features her as a disembodied AI, "Lucy" (2014) sees her character evolve into a superhuman, and "Under the Skin" positions her as a hidden predator. Together, these roles offer a meta-commentary on Johansson's own journey as a widely recognized figure in the entertainment industry, suggesting a critique of how celebrities are consumed and perceived.
The film's stark visuals and unsettling narrative are exemplified by scenes such as the one depicted here, where Johansson's character lures a victim. The film's deliberate pacing and sparse dialogue contribute to its unique and memorable quality, inviting multiple layers of interpretation from its viewers. The film is now available on Tubi.