Directed by Jonathan Glazer, Under the Skin is a sci-fi set in Scotland and featuring Scarlett Johansson in the lead role. It was released in 2013 and is a loose adaptation of Michel Faber’s novel of the same title.
To say Under the Skin is an odd film is an understatement. Without sounding condescending, it’s definitely not one for the average movie-goer, who is probably more used to films with a straightforward plot and plenty of dialogue. However, don’t let that put you off seeing this film. For those patient enough to stick with the long, drawn-out shots and lack of dialogue, there’s a hidden gem that is beautiful and breathtaking.
Johansson plays an alien, takes on the skin of a young woman and travels around Scotland seducing men, bringing them back to her house and luring them into the black void of liquid where they float, trapped. She is unfeeling, unaware of human emotion, but before too long, she begins to feel. She becomes aware of her prey’s emotions, attempting several aspects of human life, such as eating and having sex. She is followed and observed by a man on a motorcycle, who one can only assume is a rank above her in this alien hierarchy, and his job is to make sure she doesn’t stray from her mission.
The use of Scotland is an interesting one in terms of location. Whilst some may struggle to understand the thick dialect from the natives, it does provide some stunning views for the audience to see, especially towards the ending of the film; the scenery is beautiful. It’s quite refreshing as I personally haven’t viewed many films set here.
Johansson manages to carry the film on her own; every other character is relevant but doesn’t hold a candle to her performance, and her ability to tell a story without uttering a word in many scenes makes up for the somewhat slow pace. As I previously said, the dialogue isn’t vast – mostly between Johansson and her prey as she asks them questions, but this all falls into small talk. It’s a film where one has to attempt to establish the plot through visuals alone, and that’s okay; in fact, I like that we aren’t led, and we need to figure it out ourselves.
The mix of beautiful scenery and a brilliant performance by Johansson makes this one to see, but only if you can view it with a completely open mind. Easy viewing it is not, and you have to sit down and pay attention, but worth a look. Props to Jonathan Glazer. 4/5.
Ramblings of Rachools 