Under the Skin

Under the Skin is a 2013 science fiction film directed by Jonathan Glazer and written by Glazer and Walter Campbell.

Under the Skin is a 2013 science fiction film directed by Jonathan Glazer and written by Glazer and Walter Campbell. Starring Scarlett Johansson, it follows an alien disguised as a woman who travels through Scotland and targets lonely men. The film is loosely based on the 2000 novel by Michel Faber.

Plot

The film centres on an alien female-presenting character who travels through Scotland and lures isolated men. Over the course of the story, the character undergoes a process of self-discovery.

Production and source material

Under the Skin was written by Jonathan Glazer and Walter Campbell and adapted loosely from Michel Faber’s novel of the same name. The film’s minimalist approach and lead performance became central to its critical reception.

Release

The film premiered at Telluride in August 2013 and later opened in the United Kingdom in March 2014. Other territories, including the United States, released it later in 2014.

Reception

The film received significant critical attention and was described by the BFI as a notable blend of fantasy, reality, and science fiction. It has since been widely discussed for its style, mood, and interpretation.