In the realm of post-apocalyptic cinema, few films have left as haunting an impression as "It Comes at Night" (2017). This genre, known for its stark exploration of human nature under extreme conditions, continues to captivate audiences worldwide. Today, we delve into the intricate layers of creating a post-apocalyptic thriller, examining its themes, psychological elements, cinematography, and more. For filmmakers and enthusiasts alike, understanding these components can provide invaluable insights. Platforms like Critily offer comprehensive tools for analyzing and comparing films, making it easier to grasp the nuances of this compelling genre.
Post-Apocalyptic ThemesPost-apocalyptic films often explore themes of survival, human nature, and societal collapse. These narratives force characters into extreme situations, revealing their true selves. For instance, in a world stripped of modern conveniences, the struggle for basic necessities like food and water becomes a central plot point. This theme is vividly portrayed in films where characters must scavenge for supplies or defend their territory against invaders. Critily's theme analysis feature can help identify and compare these recurring motifs across different films, providing a deeper understanding of the genre's appeal.
Psychological Horror ElementsPsychological horror is a crucial component of post-apocalyptic thrillers. The fear of the unknown, the breakdown of societal norms, and the descent into madness are all explored through the characters' experiences. For example, isolation and paranoia can drive characters to the brink, creating a tense atmosphere that keeps audiences on edge. The use of sound design and minimalistic dialogue enhances this effect, making the psychological horror more palpable. With Critily, you can dissect these elements, understanding how different films utilize psychological horror to build suspense and engage viewers.
Cinematography TechniquesCinematography plays a pivotal role in setting the tone for a post-apocalyptic thriller. Techniques such as desaturated colors, handheld camera work, and tight close-ups can create a sense of immediacy and tension. For instance, the use of natural lighting and long takes can immerse the audience in the characters' harsh reality. Additionally, the strategic use of shadows and darkness can amplify the feeling of dread and uncertainty. Critily's cinematography analysis tools allow filmmakers to study these techniques in detail, offering insights into how visual storytelling can enhance the narrative.
Budget and RevenueUnderstanding the financial aspects of film production is crucial for any filmmaker. Post-apocalyptic thrillers can vary widely in budget, from low-budget indie films to big-budget blockbusters. For example, a film shot on a modest budget might rely heavily on practical effects and minimal locations, while a larger budget allows for more elaborate sets and special effects. Critily's financial analysis feature provides detailed information on budget and revenue, helping filmmakers understand the economic landscape of the genre and make informed decisions about their projects.
Similar Films
The aspect ratio of a film significantly impacts its visual storytelling. Post-apocalyptic thrillers often use widescreen formats like 2.39:1 to create a sense of vastness and isolation. This ratio can emphasize the desolation of the landscape and the insignificance of the characters within it. For example, a film shot in 2.39:1 can make the audience feel the enormity of the world and the characters' struggle to survive within it. Critily's technical analysis tools can help filmmakers understand the impact of different aspect ratios and choose the one that best suits their narrative.
Movie Facts
Synopsis
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Frequently Asked Questions"It Comes at Night" is a psychological horror film directed by Trey Edward Shults. The story revolves around two families, led by Paul (Joel Edgerton) and Will (Christopher Abbott), who are forced to share a home in an isolated forest while a mysterious, contagious illness spreads outside. As paranoia and tension grow, the families struggle to trust each other and survive the unknown threat. For more in-depth analysis, check out Critily's film breakdown.
Can you explain the ending of "It Comes at Night" without giving away too much?The ending of "It Comes at Night" is deliberately ambiguous, leaving viewers to interpret the events for themselves. Without giving too much away, the film concludes with a tense and emotional confrontation between family members, followed by a haunting final scene that leaves the fate of the characters uncertain. According to director Trey Edward Shults, the ending is meant to provoke thought and discussion about the themes of trust, fear, and the human condition.
Is "It Comes at Night" based on a book or any other source material?No, "It Comes at Night" is not based on a book or any other pre-existing source material. The film is an original screenplay written by Trey Edward Shults, who also directed the movie. Shults has mentioned in interviews that the story was inspired by his own fears and anxieties, as well as his experiences with family dynamics.
Are there any sequels or connected films to "It Comes at Night"?As of now, there are no official sequels or connected films to "It Comes at Night." The film is a standalone story with no direct connections to other movies. However, director Trey Edward Shults has expressed interest in exploring similar themes and genres in his future projects, so fans of the film should keep an eye out for his upcoming work.
Where was "It Comes at Night" filmed?"It Comes at Night" was primarily filmed in the forests and rural areas of New York state. The production team chose these locations to create a sense of isolation and claustrophobia that permeates the film. Specific filming locations include the towns of New Paltz and Rosendale, as well as various private properties and state parks in the region.
What was the budget for "It Comes at Night," and how did it perform financially?The budget for "It Comes at Night" was relatively modest, estimated at around $5 million. The film was produced by Animal Kingdom and distributed by A24, both known for their work on independent and low-budget films. Despite its limited budget, the movie managed to gross over $19 million worldwide, making it a financial success.
What was director Trey Edward Shults' vision for "It Comes at Night"?Director Trey Edward Shults envisioned "It Comes at Night" as a psychological horror film that explores the darker aspects of human nature, such as fear, paranoia, and mistrust. He wanted to create a tense and atmospheric movie that would leave audiences questioning what they would do in similar circumstances. Shults has mentioned in interviews that he drew inspiration from classic horror films, as well as his own personal experiences and fears.
What were some of the production challenges faced during the making of "It Comes at Night"?One of the main production challenges faced during the making of "It Comes at Night" was the tight shooting schedule. The film was shot over the course of just 25 days, which required careful planning and efficient use of time. Additionally, the remote filming locations presented logistical challenges, such as limited access to power and other resources. Despite these obstacles, the cast and crew managed to complete the film on time and within budget.
How did "It Comes at Night" perform at the box office?"It Comes at Night" had a strong opening weekend, grossing over $6 million in North America alone. The film went on to earn more than $19 million worldwide, making it a financial success given its modest $5 million budget. Its box office performance can be attributed to positive word-of-mouth, strong marketing, and the growing reputation of distributor A24 for delivering high-quality, innovative films.
Did "It Comes at Night" receive any awards or nominations?While "It Comes at Night" did not receive any major awards or nominations, it was recognized by several film festivals and critics' associations. For instance, the film was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the 2017 Sundance Film Festival. Additionally, director Trey Edward Shults was praised for his work on the film, with many critics hailing him as a promising new voice in the horror genre.
What were the critic scores for "It Comes at Night"?"It Comes at Night" received generally positive reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an approval rating of 88% based on 279 reviews, with an average rating of 7.5/10. The website's critical consensus reads, "'It Comes at Night' makes the most of its minimalist framework, delivering a bleak, unsettling experience that suggests promising things for writer-director Trey Edward Shults." On Metacritic, the film has a weighted average score of 78 out of 100, based on 42 critics, indicating "generally favorable reviews."
How was "It Comes at Night" received by audiences?Audience reception for "It Comes at Night" was more mixed than the critical response. On IMDb, the film has an average rating of 6.2 out of 10, based on over 80,000 user ratings. Some viewers praised the movie for its tense atmosphere, strong performances, and thought-provoking themes, while others found it too slow-paced or ambiguous. Regardless, the film has sparked numerous discussions and debates among audiences, further cementing its status as a cult favorite. For more audience insights, visit Critily's user reviews section.
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For instance, the film was nominated for the Grand Jury Prize at the 2017 Sundance Film Festival. Additionally, director Trey Edward Shults was praised for his work on the film, with many critics hailing him as a promising new voice in the horror genre." } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "What were the critic scores for \"It Comes at Night\"?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "\"It Comes at Night\" received generally positive reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds an approval rating of 88% based on 279 reviews, with an average rating of 7.5/10. The website's critical consensus reads, \"'It Comes at Night' makes the most of its minimalist framework, delivering a bleak, unsettling experience that suggests promising things for writer-director Trey Edward Shults.\" On Metacritic, the film has a weighted average score of 78 out of 100, based on 42 critics, indicating \"generally favorable reviews.\"" } }, { "@type": "Question", "name": "How was \"It Comes at Night\" received by audiences?", "acceptedAnswer": { "@type": "Answer", "text": "Audience reception for \"It Comes at Night\" was more mixed than the critical response. On IMDb, the film has an average rating of 6.2 out of 10, based on over 80,000 user ratings. Some viewers praised the movie for its tense atmosphere, strong performances, and thought-provoking themes, while others found it too slow-paced or ambiguous. Regardless, the film has sparked numerous discussions and debates among audiences, further cementing its status as a cult favorite. For more audience insights, visit Critily's user reviews section." } } ] }
