It is not uncommon for professional critics and audiences to disagree, but when critics and the regular movie-going folks have such a major difference in opinion from each other, I become very curious as to why. An example is the debate around the 2021 film We’re All Going to the World’s Fair where the former mostly raved and the latter mostly trashed. The film looked interesting to me, with the plot summary not too revealing so I was excited to see this. The Green Knight director David Lowery served as a producer here on the film from writer/director Jane Schoenbrun.
I must say this film looked very promising and the first scene set off an eerie, creepy vibe. I had no clue where this film would go and the possibilities were endless. Unfortunately, shortly after it took a wrong turn. What I thought would be a slow-burn of a film burnt out way to quickly with no real climax. While the movie was quite slow, it still may have worked for me if there was a pay-off at the end. Nothing much really happened and ultimately I felt that the short runtime of 1 hour and 26 minutes was a waste. That is not to say the film was without its positives. I loved the overall look of the picture and thought Anna Cobb was very good in her feature film debut. The little dance that she busts out with was adorable.
I can see why critics gave positive reviews, as the social commentary that the movie tried to express was meaningful. While I had an idea of what the film was generally saying, I had no clue just how specific the commentary could potentially be. Schoenbrun identifies as transgender and identity struggle from her own life most probably was infused into the script. Though just about anyone who can relate to loneliness and confusion in their teenage can identify with the movie. Still, there are many other movies that deliver a similar message alongside a more entertaining film. Additionally, those going into the picture expecting a traditional horror movie, will be disappointed. Though marketed as horror, there was little to be found. Therefore, due to the slow pace, non-existent pay-off and misleading marketing I cannot recommend this film, especially to those expecting big thrills and chills.