The world of horror cinema has witnessed an intriguing evolution, with the latest trend being the adaptation of viral internet phenomena into feature films. A24's new horror offering, Undertone, is a prime example of this, drawing inspiration from the world of creepypasta and online horror.
The Rise of Creepypasta
Creepypasta, a term derived from the cut-and-paste nature of internet horror threads, has been a breeding ground for urban legends and eerie tales. From Slenderman to Eyeless Jack, these stories have captivated and terrified online audiences for years. The early 2010s saw a surge in independently made films based on these viral threads, but it was the studio-backed adaptations that sparked a debate about the understanding and appreciation of these unique narratives.
A New Wave of Horror
Fast forward a few years, and we see a shift in the landscape. Films like We're All Going to the World's Fair and Skinamarink, created by individuals deeply invested in the creepypasta community, have gained critical acclaim. These filmmakers are translating the tremulous feelings of late-night uncertainty and obsession into compelling cinematic experiences. This trend is evident in recent horror releases, with Undertone sitting at the forefront of this movement.
The Personal Touch
Undertone's writer-director, Ian Tuason, brings a unique perspective to the film. A self-proclaimed creepypasta fan since its early days, Tuason's personal experiences and creative endeavors have shaped the narrative. His novel, The Online Profile of a Serial Killer, written in the style of a creepypasta, garnered over two million reads and won a Watty Award. Tuason's personal connection to the genre is evident in Undertone's exploration of the paranormal and the supernatural.
A Personal Journey
The film's story is deeply intertwined with Tuason's own life. Undertone's central characters, Evy and Justin, co-hosts of a paranormal podcast, receive a mysterious email with audio files that lead them down a dangerous path. This narrative thread is inspired by Tuason's own experiences as a caregiver for his terminally ill parents during the COVID pandemic. The dark thoughts that plagued him during this time served as the foundation for the film's chilling premise.
The Power of Creepypasta
For Tuason, creepypasta holds a unique appeal in the horror genre. He explains that the thrill of horror movies has lost its edge, with few films managing to scare him since the third Paranormal Activity. Creepypasta, however, offers a different kind of horror, one that blends mundane real-world events with horrific supernatural entities, making the unimaginable seem plausible.
A Deeper Exploration
Undertone delves into the psychological impact of horror, exploring the mind's tendency to imagine the worst. The film's setting, often around 3 a.m., taps into the liminal feeling of the middle of the night, a time when fears and uncertainties can run wild. This attention to detail and the film's personal connection to its creator make Undertone a compelling addition to the horror genre.
Conclusion
Undertone is more than just a horror film; it's a reflection of the power of online communities and the unique narratives they create. By drawing on his personal experiences and the world of creepypasta, Tuason has crafted a film that explores the boundaries between the mundane and the supernatural, offering a chilling and thought-provoking cinematic experience.
