Scarlett Johansson is undeniably one of the most recognized and versatile actresses of her generation, with unforgettable roles in films like Lost in Translation and the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Black Widow. Yet, despite her fame, one of her most critically acclaimed performances might be a film you haven’t heard of. In 2022, Under the Skin, a 2013 sci-fi thriller starring Johansson, was named the best British film of the 21st century in a poll conducted by MASSIVE Cinema. The film’s haunting, surreal visuals and Johansson’s chilling performance as a shape-shifting alien have earned it a place as a “cinematic masterpiece.” But what makes Under the Skin stand out, and why has it stirred such polarized reactions?
The Plot of Under the Skin: A Surreal Cinematic Journey
It’s not one of her best known films (StudioCanal)
At first glance, Under the Skin may seem like an unusual choice for a “best film of the century” title. Directed by Jonathan Glazer, best known for Sexy Beast, the film is based on Michel Faber’s 2000 novel. Johansson plays an alien in human form, tasked with luring unsuspecting men into her van as she traverses the Scottish countryside. The men are then led to a dilapidated house, where they are submerged into a liquid abyss in one of the most surreal and nightmarish sequences in recent cinematic history.
From the start, Under the Skin defies traditional sci-fi conventions. It’s less about action or plot and more about atmosphere, tension, and psychological unease. The film unfolds in a slow burn, relying heavily on visual storytelling and a hypnotic, eerie soundtrack. It’s a genre-defying piece that leans more towards art-house cinema than commercial sci-fi, which is likely why it’s so divisive among audiences.
A Cinematic Masterpiece or a Confusing Experience?
Under the Skin has garnered critical praise, with reviewers hailing it as a “surreal cinematic masterpiece.” Critics have praised the film’s originality, with Nicholas Bell of IONCINEMA.com calling it “a cinematic masterpiece that’s surreal, scintillating, and unforgettably strange.” Dustin Chang of Floating World described it as “one of the most singularly mesmerising movie-watching experiences” he’d had in a long time, citing its arresting imagery and hypnotic soundtrack.
The film’s eerie, minimalist style also makes it a standout. The use of non-professional actors, combined with Johansson’s chilling portrayal of an emotionless alien, creates a unique atmosphere that resonates long after the film ends. It’s a film that doesn’t need conventional narrative structure or clear explanations – the experience is more about feeling the alienation and dread of the protagonist’s journey.
Yet, despite its critical acclaim, the general audience response has been more mixed. With over 25,000 reviews on Rotten Tomatoes, the film has earned a relatively low 55% audience score. For some viewers, the film’s slow pace and abstract narrative make it difficult to engage with. As one reviewer put it, “Absolute crap, didn’t understand the movie; it went off after 30 minutes.”
Why Under the Skin Resonates with Critics
The praise from critics isn’t just about the film’s surrealism – it’s about its deep philosophical underpinnings and its exploration of human nature through the lens of an alien invader. Johansson’s character, devoid of human empathy, is forced to confront the complexities of the human condition. The film doesn’t offer easy answers; instead, it invites the viewer to ponder questions about identity, morality, and the boundaries of humanity.
Scarlett Johansson portrays an alien abducting men in the film (StudioCanal)
The film’s haunting visuals also contribute significantly to its impact. The scenes of Johansson’s character driving through desolate landscapes, combined with the chilling soundtrack by Mica Levi, create a disorienting experience that enhances the film’s emotional resonance. The soundtrack itself, minimalist yet eerie, plays a key role in amplifying the film’s atmosphere.
Another reason critics praise Under the Skin is for its ability to evoke deep, often uncomfortable emotions. By using alienation as a central theme, the film explores what it means to be human, and how those who are “othered” – like Johansson’s alien character – perceive and interact with us.
Scarlett Johansson’s Role: A Career-Defining Performance
At the heart of Under the Skin is Scarlett Johansson’s performance. As an alien who inhabits the body of a woman, Johansson delivers a portrayal that is both haunting and mesmerizing. There’s an eerie calmness to her character, who doesn’t quite understand human emotions but is nonetheless drawn to them. Johansson’s physicality in the role is striking – her movements are often stiff and mechanical, adding to the otherworldly nature of her character. But there’s also an undercurrent of vulnerability, especially as her character begins to question her mission and identity.
Under the Skin has been called a ‘cinematic masterpiece’ (StudioCanal)
Many consider this one of Johansson’s most singular and haunting roles to date, with some arguing it stands apart from her more commercial, blockbuster performances in the Avengers series. Under the Skin allowed Johansson to flex her acting muscles in ways that were both subtle and intense, showcasing her ability to convey emotion through minimal dialogue and a reliance on body language.
The Polarizing Reception: Masterpiece or Mystery?
While critics have hailed Under the Skin as a cinematic triumph, the film’s reception among general audiences has been less enthusiastic. Its abstract narrative and slow pace may have alienated viewers who were expecting a more traditional sci-fi thriller. With only a modest 55% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, it’s clear that this film is not for everyone.
For some, the film is an immersive and unforgettable journey into the unknown, while for others, it’s a confusing, pretentious mess. One thing is certain: Under the Skin is a film that challenges its audience. It asks the viewer to engage with it on a deeper, emotional level, which is not always an easy task.
The Legacy of Under the Skin and Its Place in Cinematic History
Despite its divisive nature, Under the Skin has carved out a lasting place in cinematic history. Named the best British film of the 21st century in a poll by MASSIVE Cinema, it has earned recognition as a groundbreaking piece of work. The film’s surrealism and exploration of human existence have cemented its status as an essential film for fans of experimental cinema.
As we look back on Scarlett Johansson’s career, Under the Skin stands out as one of her most daring and unique roles. It may not have been a commercial hit, but its impact on the art of filmmaking is undeniable. For those who are willing to venture into its strange and unsettling world, Under the Skin offers a thought-provoking experience that lingers long after the credits roll.
Conclusion: A Film That Defies Expectations
In the end, Under the Skin is a film that defies easy categorization. It’s not your typical blockbuster or even your typical sci-fi film. It’s a dark, hypnotic journey into the unknown, with a mesmerizing performance by Scarlett Johansson at its core. Whether you see it as a masterpiece or a mystery, one thing is clear: Under the Skin has earned its place as one of the most unique and talked-about films of the 21st century.
