undertheskin（Inside the World of Under the Skin）

Inside the World of Under the Skin

Under the Skin, a science fiction film directed by Jonathan Glazer and starring Scarlett Johansson, is known for its surreal and enigmatic style. The film follows an alien who takes on the form of a human woman and preys on men in Scotland.

The Aesthetic of Uncanny

One of the most striking features of Under the Skin is its use of uncanny imagery. From the opening scenes that depict the creation of the alien's human body to the unsettling scenes of men being absorbed, the film invokes a sense of unease in its viewers. The film's use of eerie music and saturated colors adds to this atmosphere of otherworldliness.

This aesthetic is perhaps best exemplified in the scene where the alien is naked and vulnerable for the first time. The camera lingers on her form while she examines herself in a mirror, and the viewer is forced to confront the strangeness of this being who looks human but is clearly not. The effect is unsettling, but also fascinating.

The Power of the Gaze

Another major theme in Under the Skin is the power dynamic between the alien and the men she preys upon. The film uses the concept of the gaze to explore this dynamic. The alien, who has a cold, detached gaze, is able to draw men towards her and trap them. Once trapped, the men are at her mercy.

However, the film also complicates this power dynamic. In one scene, a man attempts to rape the alien, but is ultimately unable to do so. The shift in power dynamics here is significant, and it raises questions about the nature of attraction and desire.

Identity and Isolation

Finally, Under the Skin touches upon themes of identity and isolation. The alien's attempts to understand human behavior and emotion lead her to form a tenuous connection with a man she meets, but ultimately, her inability to relate to him leads to her isolation once again. The film suggests that true understanding and connection may be impossible to achieve.

This theme is underscored by the film's use of long, contemplative shots of the Scottish landscape. The vast, desolate expanses of land and sea stand in stark contrast to the claustrophobic and intimate scenes between the alien and her victims. This contrast highlights the alien's isolation and the impossibility of truly understanding the human experience.

In conclusion, Under the Skin is a visually stunning film that explores themes of alienation, power, and identity. Its use of uncanny imagery, the gaze, and expansive landscapes make it an unforgettable viewing experience.