If you're a fan of mind-bending thrillers or the giallo genre, It’s What’s Inside is the modern film you’ve been waiting for. This stylish, sci-fi infused thriller made its debut at Sundance earlier in the year and has already started gaining traction as a must-watch for the season. Below, I’ll break down why It’s What’s Inside deserves a spot on your watchlist, touching on its plot, cast, visual aesthetic, and why it’s a new gem for lovers of unconventional thrillers.

Set during a pre-wedding party at a lavish estate, It’s What’s Inside follows a group of friends whose night of celebration turns into a psychological nightmare. Everything starts to unravel when a mysterious guest, Forbes (David W. Thompson), introduces a strange device that allows people to swap bodies - and convinces the group to play. What begins as a party game quickly spirals out of control as the friends begin to uncover dark secrets about each other, all while trapped in bodies they may or may not want to be in. This clever sci-fi premise becomes a sharp critique of personal identities, the masks worn in today’s social media-driven world, and the secrets we keep from those closest to us.

One of the most impressive aspects of It’s What’s Inside is how the cast seamlessly navigates playing multiple characters throughout the film, thanks to the body-swapping premise. The actors aren't just playing their initial characters—they are also portraying the personalities and mannerisms of other characters inhabiting their bodies. This requires a remarkable level of versatility, as each actor must subtly shift their performance to reflect the different friends now in control of their bodies.

Alycia Debnam-Carey, for example, excels as Nikki, the social media influencer, but she’s equally compelling when her body is taken over by other characters who bring entirely new dynamics to her role. This constant interchange keeps the performances fresh, as viewers are challenged to recognize which character is inhabiting which body. The cast’s ability to embody both their original characters and the nuances of those switching bodies around them is one of the film's greatest strengths. It doubles down on an already tense narrative, showcasing the impressive range and adaptability of the entire cast.

 

One of the standout elements of It’s What’s Inside is its striking visual style. Much like the giallo films it undoubtedly draws inspiration from, the film utilizes the dramatic bisexual lighting we all know and love, with other bold color choices to heighten its atmosphere. The use of red, blue, and green washes over key moments, not only setting the mood but also visually representing the shifts in identity and control as characters swap bodies. These stark, vivid lighting choices mirror emotion almost to a soap opera level, and add a layer of surrealism that propels the narrative forward. Director Greg Jardin expertly uses these aesthetic elements to elevate the storytelling, creating a disorienting visual landscape.

If you’re into the twisted psychological tension of giallo films like Nine Guests for a Crime (1977) or enjoy more recent genre-benders like Bodies Bodies Bodies (2022), It’s What’s Inside will likely be right up your alley. The film's combination of sci-fi elements, body horror, and poor human behavior makes it a standout thriller. It explores themes of identity, authenticity, and the artificial nature of the personas we present to others. Plus, the body-swapping concept adds an extra layer of intrigue, making every interaction between characters feel loaded with potential disaster.

It’s What’s Inside is available to stream on Netflix as of October 4, 2024. Given its blend of genres and visually stunning production, it's the perfect film to settle into leading up to Halloween. 

With its clever narrative, strong performances, and stunning visuals, It’s What’s Inside is a thrilling ride that leaves you questioning the nature of identity and trust. The bold lighting and dramatic color choices only enhance the surreal atmosphere, making this film an excellent choice for those who love thought-provoking thrillers with a sharp visual edge. Whether you're a die-hard fan of giallo cinema or just looking for a unique movie for a Halloween get-together, this one’s worth a spot on your watchlist.