It Follows (2015) is a critically acclaimed American horror film written and directed by David Robert Mitchell. The film stars Maika Monroe as Jay Height, a young woman who becomes the target of a supernatural entity after a sexual encounter. It premiered at the 2014 Cannes Film Festival and was released in theaters on March 27, 2015, following a successful limited release. The film quickly garnered attention for its unique premise and atmospheric tension, establishing itself as a modern classic in the horror genre.
The plot begins with a character named Annie Marshall, who is seen fleeing from an unseen threat. After her mysterious death, the narrative shifts to Jay Height, who goes on a date with her boyfriend Hugh. Following their intimate encounter, Hugh reveals that he has passed on a curse to Jay: she will be followed by an entity that can take the form of any person but is only visible to her. This relentless force moves at a walking pace and will kill her if it catches up. As Jay grapples with this horrifying reality, her friends—Kelly, Paul, and Yara—join her in trying to understand and combat this terrifying presence. The film explores themes of sexuality, fear, and the loss of innocence, all while maintaining a tense atmosphere that keeps viewers on edge.
It Follows received widespread acclaim for its originality and effective horror elements. Critics praised its ability to evoke fear without relying heavily on gore or traditional jump scares. The film grossed approximately $23.3 million worldwide against a modest budget of $1.3 million, establishing it as a modern horror classic with a dedicated fanbase. It holds an IMDb rating of 6.8/10 and has won numerous awards, further solidifying its status in contemporary horror cinema.
The film's unique premise has led to discussions about its deeper meanings, particularly regarding the implications of sexual relationships and societal fears surrounding intimacy. In October 2023, it was announced that a sequel titled They Follow is in development, with filming set to begin in 2025. Overall, It Follows stands out as a significant work in the horror genre, blending psychological tension with social commentary in a way that resonates with audiences both critically and commercially.