“I want to be the meaning of my own life.”
Peppe-Perfect Strangers (2016)
This one came out of nowhere. Netflix quietly released It’s What’s Inside on October 4th, and the internet blew up with rave reviews. I quickly put it on my Halloweenfest list. The film’s premise is a little bonkers. A group of friends gather for a pre-wedding party. The night takes a bizarre turn when an estranged friend arrives with a mysterious device that can induce body swaps. The friends are tempted into playing a twisted game that unearths long-hidden secrets, desires, and grudges as the group navigates deceit and startling revelation.
Directed by Greg Jardin, this film is a tightly woven mix of sci-fi, mystery, and psychological intrigue that offers more than just the typical suspense. Jardin’s direction is smooth and ambitious. He skillfully plays with pacing, building an atmosphere of growing unease without ever losing control of the narrative. The script cleverly balances its science fiction concept with dark comedic moments, creating a film that is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. The writing taps into the nature of identity and trust, questioning how well we really know those closest to us.
The ensemble cast is stellar, delivering performances that elevate the film’s complex themes of identity, betrayal, and self-awareness. Each actor fully embodies their character, not just in their own roles but in the body-swapping sequences, giving each moment a layered tension. The collectively awesome performances from the cast make the film’s intense, dialogue-driven scenes gripping. There’s not a standout, but no one is bad either.
While exciting, the film’s final act slightly falters under the weight of its own ambition. The pacing ramps up quickly, and the culmination of the body-swapping chaos feels somewhat rushed. Yet, even with a few hiccups, It’s What’s Inside leaves a lasting impact, proving that originality and tight direction can transform a simple concept into something deeper.
Despite the occasional stumble in the final act, this film stands out as a fresh and thrilling addition to Netflix’s lineup. With stellar performances, Greg Jardin’s masterful direction, and a plot that keeps you guessing until the end, It’s What’s Inside is a mind-bending thriller you don’t want to miss. This movie will scratch that itch for fans of smart, psychological sci-fi. Halloweenfest just got a little more exciting.
Rating: 7.5/10
