It’s What’s Inside // How to Watch a Scary Movie

I’m definitely not the type to suggest watching a horror movie for fun. It’s not that I don’t appreciate the genre because I very much do. The practical and unpractical effects, dramatic over-the-top moments, story escalation, and enjoyable settings are all definitely up my alley. But, alas, ever since I became a mother almost 10 years ago, I have become overly empathic to all parties (victims and killers alike) and, at times, absolutely horrified by the fictional depravities on screen. I’ve also found that as I’ve gotten older my mood is far more easily influenced by the media I consume. Accompanied by specific mental health challenges, I’ve found the post-viewing experience of this genre the most uncomfortable part for me. Worry, anxiety, and nightmares ensue. 

That said, I still find myself intrigued by the occasional horror/thriller movie. This is mostly because I enjoy exploring all types of art and media and would hate to be a prisoner to my fear of potentially upsetting imagery or concepts. I find this important to explore. So, how do I watch a scary movie?

Pick a Flick

When I saw It’s What’s Inside on Netflix, I was immediately intrigued. It follows a group of old college friends reuniting for a pre-wedding party. Quickly, they decide to play a game in which they swap bodies. The characters seemed a little bit older than me. I’m a self-proclaimed “Zelenial” on the cusp of becoming a millennial yet not cool enough to be Gen Z. It had sci-fi and mystery “who-dun-it” elements, which I enjoy very much. Also, it has that modern vibe, which would likely keep the movie palatable for this easily spooked mom. Moreover, it reminded me of a movie I surprisingly did enjoy, Bodies Bodies Bodies.

Research

Before I watch anything, though, I go to my favorite website, Does the Dog Die? This website provides a list of potential triggers that movies may include. Viewers can navigate through the list and indicate whether each trigger is present in the movie they are reviewing by checking “yes” or “no” for each item. This tool has helped me tremendously in anticipating any triggers. Or deciding if a movie is something I’m even comfortable viewing. 

For people who aren’t as sensitive as myself, you may feel this would spoil key plot points. Yet, I haven’t found it has ever affected my viewing experience. On the contrary, I feel it has helped me enjoy the viewing experience far more. I don’t have to nervously anticipate something that may disturb me. The questions and answers are vague enough that they don’t spoil the plot too much. However, for someone who is easily able to deduce things, it may have a spoiling effect.

For this movie, I discovered in my pre-watch research that there was no sexual assault, no animal death, no excessive gore, and no child death. WHEW! Took out some heavy hitters right there, and I felt a lot more confident moving forward. I did see, however, that there is one jumpscare towards the beginning of the movie, but with a brief description of the scare, I determined this wasn’t a sore spot for me. There are also sexual scenes that may not be skippable for the plot, but you may still be able to understand key points later. There is some blood and gore, but not excessive. And, of course, there is death.

Get Comfy
I watched this movie alone during the day, with natural light in the room. I created a fun vibe for myself with a cozy blanket and my favorite drink (hot chocolate). It’s a typical confusing fall/winter here in Texas, with cold and then warm weather, but I leaned into the comfortable energy of the season. Mood setting is a very important part of my day. 

Despite the R rating and my knowledge of an impending death, I quite enjoyed the viewing experience of this movie! The opening imagery was unsettling, and I was jumpscared.  Then, it was followed by a scene that felt comedic and modern. The cinematography was fun and engaging; combined with the characters, setting, and music, it helped create a playful, mysterious, and foreboding atmosphere.

The plot was easy to follow, as were the “rules” of the game they were playing. And visual aids were used in scenes where someone might get more easily confused. This made it fun to watch, and all you really had to do was sit back and speculate as the plot unfolded. Although this wasn’t a typical “who-dun-it” type movie, I did find it contained lots of fun drama and motives to try to decipher. I experienced a healthy level of anxiety as the plot developed and the story came to an end.

Final Verdict

It’s What’s Inside exceeded my expectations. The interpersonal and relationship drama was very enjoyable for me as an avid consumer of reality shows such as “Love is Blind” and “The Ultimatum”. The death in the movie was not graphic. I didn’t find any images stuck in my head after viewing it. During and after watching the movie, I realized it triggered thoughts about consent. Mostly because the characters engaged in actions within each other’s bodies, which is something I am sensitive to.  Overall, the movie was enjoyable and suitable for viewers who are slightly more sensitive to the horror/thriller genre but still have an interest in it. If you’re looking to watch a movie with some friends or family who are into this genre and you aren’t, I think this is where It’s What’s Inside would really shine.