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Plot Summary:

• Title: I Saw the TV Glow
• Release Year: 2024
• Genre: Psychological horror-drama
• Director: Jane Schoenbrun
• Starring:
  • Justice Smith as Owen
  • Brigette Lundy-Paine as Maddy
  • Ian Foreman, Helena Howard, Fred Durst, and Danielle Deadwyler in supporting roles

The Premise:

In 1996, withdrawn 7th grader Owen strikes up an unlikely friendship with troubled 9th grader Maddy. Their bond forms over a shared obsession with a mysterious late-night TV show called “The Pink Opaque.” This show features teenage girls, Isabel and Tara, who fight monsters in a dangerous supernatural realm.

The TV Show:

• “The Pink Opaque”:
  • A young adult television series with dense mythology.
  • Owen falls in love with the show, despite its complexities.
  • Maddy, ostracized by her peers, watches it to cope with her miserable social life and physically abusive father.

Life Takes a Dark Turn:

1. Brenda’s Illness (1998):

   • Owen’s mother, Brenda, falls terminally ill.
   • Owen faces the prospect of living alone with his cruel and judgmental father, Frank.

2. Maddy’s Disappearance (1999):

   • Maddy disappears without a trace.
   • The Pink Opaque is canceled after five seasons.

3. Owen’s Struggle (2007):

   • Owen supports and lives with Frank.
   • He works at a local movie theater for income.

Themes Explored:

• Identity and Obsession:

  • The show becomes a lifeline for Owen and Maddy.
  • Their reality blurs as they immerse themselves in its supernatural world.

• Trans Allegory:

  • The haunting tale also serves as a trans allegory, exploring identity and acceptance.

Reception:

• Critics have praised Jane Schoenbrun’s stunning second feature for its devastating impact and unique storytelling.

Release and Availability:

• Release Date: January 18, 2024 (Sundance), May 3, 2024 (United States)
• Distributed by A24
• Limited release in New York and Los Angeles, followed by a wider release on May 17.

• I Saw the TV Glow