Scarlett Johansson has tackled nearly every genre imaginable, but her most mesmerizing performance might be in a film that defies easy categorization. Directed by Jonathan Glazer, Under the Skin (2014) is less a conventional horror movie and more a hypnotic piece of art. In just 108 minutes, it accomplishes what most films can only dream of—leaving an indelible mark on your psyche. With its haunting score, striking visuals, and Johansson's chillingly detached portrayal, this sci-fi thriller is a must-watch before it vanishes from Netflix on October 31.
The plot is deliberately sparse, focusing on an unnamed alien (Johansson) who assumes the form of a beautiful woman. She drives a van through the streets of Scotland, picking up unsuspecting men. Through casual conversation, she assesses their lives—those with families or meaningful connections are let go, but the lonely and unattached are lured to a mysterious warehouse. There, they sink into a black, tar-like void, never to be seen again. It's a chilling inversion of the typical predator-prey dynamic, placing men in the role of victims.
What sets Under the Skin apart is its refusal to spoon-feed the audience. Glazer trusts viewers to piece together the alien's motives and the film's deeper themes. This is not your typical alien invasion story; it's an exploration of what it means to be human, seen through the eyes of an outsider. The film uses hidden cameras to capture real reactions from unsuspecting locals, adding an unsettling authenticity. Johansson's co-stars were often non-actors, making their interactions feel raw and genuine.
The result is a movie that feels like a waking dream—or nightmare. Glazer's direction is meticulous, every frame carefully composed, every sound designed to unsettle. The score, by Mica Levi, is dissonant and eerie, perfectly complementing the film's tone. It's no wonder the film has been hailed as a modern classic, often mentioned alongside other sci-fi masterpieces that push boundaries.
As the Female observes humanity, she begins to understand both its beauty and its horrors. She witnesses acts of kindness and cruelty, and her journey becomes a meditation on the senselessness of violence. The ending is ambiguous, leaving viewers to interpret what it all means. But that's part of the film's genius—it stays with you long after the credits roll, prompting endless discussion and analysis.
For those who appreciate thought-provoking thrillers, Under the Skin is essential viewing. It's a film that rewards patience and attention, offering new layers with each watch. If you're looking for something to binge this spooky season, this is a perfect choice. And if you're already a fan, now's the time for a rewatch before it's gone. Don't let this one slip away—catch it while you can.
While you're at it, check out some other underrated thrillers that deserve your attention. And if you're in the mood for more sci-fi, our ranking of Netflix's best sci-fi series has plenty of options. But make no mistake—Under the Skin is a unique experience that you won't find anywhere else.
