I Saw the TV Glow (2024)

dir Jane Schoenbrun

Originally watched on September 3, 2026.

It’s honestly embarrassing how long it took me to come around and watch this one. Sorry, Jane! I really am sorry. Let me extend my apologies to Justice Smith and Jack Haven as well. Before we actually get into the film as a whole, I just gotta point out the weird and wild casting. Not in a bad way whatsoever but like so random? Why is Fred Durst here? Why was Mr. Melancholy played by Elliot Page’s ex-wife who doesn’t even act? She’s a dance choreographer! Hello??

Well, it all worked and I liked it.

I guess the reason I didn’t want to watch I Saw the TV Glow when it first debuted (especially why I had zero desire to see it in theaters) was anxiety. Like I’ve been out as nonbinary for 8 years, I’ve experimented with hormones, I’ve tried out different presentations and labels until I found some that stuck. I guess what I’m saying is that I’ve been around the block at least once. So logically I shouldn’t fear the idea of missing out on the real me or, like, losing time… god, this movie is so hard to talk about with any semblance of eloquence! I’m a clumsy and awkward baby deer, stumbling on my new, knobby knees that are 8 years old. It’s scary! This is considered a horror movie for a reason, I guess. Logically I’m also not at risk of being killed and eaten by Leatherface but even still, Texas Chainsaw Massacre scared me enough that I had to stop eating meat for a while.

So all of that to say, kudos to Jane Schoenbrun for being able to capture the absolutely disgusting terror of repressing your truth. Amen. Can’t wait to watch We’re All Going to the World’s Fair.