Netflix’s “It’s What’s Inside” film Was Confusingly Great! 8/10 Rating

It’s What’s Inside takes viewers on a mind-bending journey as a pre-wedding celebration spirals into an existential nightmare. The chaos begins when an estranged friend arrives unannounced, carrying a mysterious suitcase that sparks a series of unsettling events. The ensemble cast features Shelby (Brittany O’Grady), an anxious bride-to-be, her tactless boyfriend Cyrus (James Morosini), the globally envied influencer Nikki (Alycia Debnam-Carey), charismatic groom Reuben (Devon Terrell), trust-fund kid Dennis (Gavin Leatherwood), free-spirited artist Brooke (Reina Hardesty), and the spiritually attuned Maya (Nina Bloomgarden). At the heart of the mystery is Forbes (David Thompson), an enigmatic figure whose presence triggers a cascade of strange occurrences.

This film is an intriguing puzzle from the start, drawing you in with its captivating characters and mounting tension. What begins as a lighthearted gathering soon unravels into a gripping mystery, leaving both the characters and the audience questioning reality. The film’s pacing keeps you hooked, and as the layers of the story peel back, you’re left wondering what’s real, what’s imagined, and what’s hidden in plain sight.

At its core, It’s What’s Inside thrives on its ability to disorient and bewilder, making it the kind of movie that demands a second viewing. Upon first watch, the film’s cryptic nature can feel overwhelming, but that’s part of its charm. It presents subtle hints, symbolic imagery, and nuanced dialogue that you’ll only fully appreciate once you piece together the clues. The film plays with themes of friendship, identity, and hidden motives, all while maintaining an eerie, almost dream-like atmosphere.

Brittany O’Grady stands out as Shelby, delivering a performance that captures the character’s growing paranoia and fear as the night unfolds. Similarly, Alycia Debnam-Carey’s portrayal of Nikki brings a sharp contrast between the glossy influencer persona and the vulnerability hiding beneath. Each character contributes to the sense of unease that permeates the story, and the chemistry among the cast amplifies the tension.

Visually, It’s What’s Inside is striking, using its confined setting to heighten the claustrophobia of the situation. The camera work and lighting add to the film’s disorienting quality, often making the viewer feel just as lost and unsettled as the characters.

While the film may leave some viewers perplexed or even frustrated by its ambiguity, that’s exactly why it works so well. It’s rare to find a movie that not only encourages, but practically demands, repeated viewings. You’ll want to go back and uncover all the details you missed the first time around.

Ultimately, I’d give It’s What’s Inside an 8/10. It’s not for everyone — its cryptic plot and slow-burning tension might alienate some — but for those who enjoy a good mystery and psychological thriller, it’s a fascinating watch. The film’s strength lies in its ability to keep you guessing long after the credits roll, making it one of Netflix’s more thought-provoking offerings this year.

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