5 Parental Tips To Understand The Movie It Follows

As parents, you might find it increasingly difficult to understand the intricacies of the films your children are watching, especially when these films delve into complex themes of horror, suspense, and coming-of-age stories like It Follows. Released in 2014 and directed by David Robert Mitchell, this film has caught the attention of both horror enthusiasts and younger viewers. Here are five parental tips to help you navigate and understand the underlying messages and appeal of It Follows:

The Premise 🌟

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It Follows follows the story of a high school student, Jay, who, after a sexual encounter, finds herself plagued by a supernatural entity that can take the form of anyone and follows her relentlessly. The entity's presence is inevitable, but it can only move at a walking pace.

• Understanding the Horror Element: The film's slow-burn horror approach might be misunderstood or too subtle for younger viewers, making them wonder what is actually happening. The entity symbolizes consequences, whether it's sexual, psychological, or existential.

• Parental Insight: This narrative structure can serve as an allegory for the consequences of actions, particularly those related to intimacy and the unknown dangers of growing up. It's a metaphor for the dangers that can come from adult decisions, often misinterpreted by teens as mere rules or warnings.

Themes to Discuss 📝

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It Follows goes beyond typical horror tropes to explore themes that are ripe for discussion:

• Sex and Consequences: The film uniquely portrays the act of sex as not just a physical or emotional connection but also as a carrier of consequences. It can be a starting point to discuss sexual responsibility.

• Anxiety and Paranoia: The constant feeling of being watched or followed can be linked to how teens might feel under the pressure of societal expectations or personal choices.

• Isolation vs. Community: The film shows how characters must confront their fears alone, yet they ultimately seek help from friends and family. This can initiate talks on seeking support in times of distress.

<p class="pro-note">💡 Note: Be mindful that these themes can be heavy for some children, and ensure they are mature enough to handle the discussions without undue stress.</p>

Symbolism and Visual Storytelling 🎨

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The film's use of imagery and symbolism is profound:

• The Entity: Often appears as ordinary people, emphasizing that danger can come from anywhere or anyone. This can be a metaphor for real-life dangers lurking in plain sight.

• The Neighborhood: The film's setting in suburban Detroit, with its endless rows of similar-looking houses, mirrors the repetitive cycle of life and the feeling of being trapped or followed by one's past.

• The Ending: The film ends on an ambiguous note, leaving much to interpretation. This can foster discussions on open-ended stories and how life rarely provides neat conclusions.

Parent-Child Dialogue 🗣️

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Engaging with your child about It Follows can:

• Open Up Communication: Asking open-ended questions about what they understood or felt about the film can provide insights into their thoughts and feelings on complex subjects.

• Encourage Critical Thinking: Films like this can be a platform to teach your child how to critically analyze media, exploring why certain themes are used, what the filmmaker might be trying to communicate, and how effective the message was.

<p class="pro-note">🚨 Note: Some scenes might be too mature for younger viewers, so ensure you're aware of their sensitivity before diving into detailed discussions.</p>

Conclusion

Understanding It Follows involves appreciating its layered storytelling, where horror elements serve as metaphors for the often-ignored anxieties of adolescence. By engaging in open discussions about the film, you can help your child navigate not only the film's themes but also their understanding of the world around them. Remember, your role is not just to guide but also to learn from these discussions, enhancing your connection with your child.

  

    

      

        
What age is appropriate for watching *It Follows*?
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The film has mature themes and scenes, suggesting it's more suitable for teenagers, ideally those 15 and above, who can comprehend and discuss the film's underlying messages.
      
    
    

      

        
Why is *It Follows* appealing to younger audiences?
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The film's use of horror elements, combined with a coming-of-age narrative, resonates with teens. It addresses their fears and anxieties in a metaphorical way, making it engaging and thought-provoking.
      
    
    

      

        
How can I explain the themes to my child?
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Start by discussing how the film uses horror to explore real-life issues like consequences of actions, the importance of community support, and the transition to adulthood.
      
    
    

      

        
Is it scary, or just suspenseful?
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*It Follows* combines suspense with elements of traditional horror, creating a unique atmosphere that builds tension rather than relying on jump scares. It's more about psychological horror than overt fear.