Movies that explore complex issues through abstract storytelling hold a special allure for me. I Saw the TV Glow is one such film, and it stands out for its bold creative choices. It’s a coming-of-age tale interwoven with horror, disturbing imagery, and a deep dive into self-identity. The film’s ability to unnerve its audience is deliberate and highly effective. I found myself unable to look away, even as the protagonist, Owen, physically ripped open his chest to confront what he had locked inside. That visceral moment encapsulates the movie’s haunting beauty and emotional weight.
The story revolves around Owen, a young man grappling with self-acceptance, and his connection with Maddy, an older girl he bonds with over their shared love for an unsettling horror TV show. The show becomes a mirror for their struggles, particularly the main female characters, in whom they see their own reflections. While Maddy fully embraces this connection, Owen resists it, a dynamic that captures the tension between self-acceptance and denial. On the surface, the film addresses universal themes of identity, but at its core, it is a poignant reflection of the trans and queer experience. What struck me most was how the movie, despite its sinister tone, resonated as a source of comfort for many viewers. For those who saw themselves in Owen and Maddy, it offered a rare validation.
The soundtrack and cinematography elevate the film to another level. They’re eerie, liberating, and stunningly evocative, blending the chaos of teenage angst with moments of profound self-discovery. The film’s artistry ensures it speaks to a broad audience, transcending its queer allegory to tap into the universal struggle of finding oneself. Watching Owen and Maddy navigate their identities through the safety of their TV show reminded me of how storytelling provides a distance that makes it easier to process complex emotions. It’s a shared experience that invites viewers into a safe yet challenging space.
But I Saw the TV Glow doesn’t shy away from the darker realities of self-acceptance. Owen’s secrecy about the TV show—his only outlet for self-expression—is a direct result of his fear of being discovered, especially by his father. The film underscores the risks of embracing one’s true self in an unaccepting environment. For Maddy, her attachment to the TV show’s characters leads her to a shocking act of self-liberation: burying herself alive. This act, while horrifying, symbolizes her shedding the weight of years of suppression. When she reemerges, she’s free—isolated, but finally herself.
Owen’s story takes a tragically different path. Unable to fully embrace his identity, he conforms to societal expectations: marriage, children, and a job that drains him of joy. His life becomes a cautionary tale of repression’s consequences. In his final moments, with nothing left to lose, Owen tears open his chest in a desperate act of self-reconciliation. It’s a heartbreaking reminder that suppressing who we are only leads to regret and unfulfilled potential.
The film has seen a resurgence in popularity, thanks in part to a trend on TikTok. Many queer and introspective individuals have shared their reflections on the movie, often referencing its themes with phrases like, “I saw the TV glow, so I turned it off.” These posts frequently allude to traditional and repressive behaviors, echoing Owen’s struggles. While it’s disheartening to see people relate to Owen’s pain, the ongoing conversation about self-identity is undeniably valuable. It creates a space where people can explore their journeys without fear of judgment, fostering a sense of community and understanding.
Not all the stories shared online are somber. Some celebrate the freedom and joy of embracing one’s true self, adding a layer of hope to the film’s legacy. These moments remind us that even amid the horrors of self-discovery, there is meaning and, ultimately, liberation. I Saw the TV Glow doesn’t just tell a story; it invites us to reflect on our own, offering a powerful lesson about the necessity and complexity of self-acceptance.