Everyone loves a good party game, but what happens when the stakes get dangerously high? It’s What’s Inside takes that familiar fun and twists it into something much darker. Greg Jardin, serving as both writer and director, uses sci-fi to unravel deep-seated emotions like jealousy and tension, turning a pre-wedding celebration into a chaotic, mind-bending nightmare.
It’s What’s Inside bursts onto the scene like a glitter bomb, throwing us straight into the dazzling chaos of a party that’s anything but ordinary! We’re introduced to the dynamic duo, Shelby (Brittany O’Grady) and her not-so-charming boyfriend, Cyrus “The Virus” (James Morosini). Their relationship feels like a simmering pot, ready to explode at any moment. Their quirky bickering sets a playful yet chaotic vibe for the group gathered at Reuben’s (Devon Terrell) stunning mansion. This eclectic crew includes the laid-back trust fund kid, Dennis (Gavin Leatherwood), artsy scene queen Brooke (Reina Hardesty), mega influencer Nikki (Alycia Debnam-Carey), and the mystical spirit Maya (Nina Bloomgarden). Just when you think the party couldn’t get any wilder, it struts the wild card, Forbes (David W. Thompson), carrying a mysterious briefcase and proposing a game that’s sure to turn the night upside down. What kind of game, you ask? Well, you’ll have to tune in to find out!
Jardin sets the stage with a clever opening montage that feels like scrolling through a perfectly curated Instagram feed, filled with glam snapshots and envy-inducing highlights. But don’t let the sparkle fool you! Characters like Nikki embody that façade of perfection, where followers dream of swapping lives with their social media idols. As the night unfolds, the partygoers—buzzing with excitement and maybe a little too much liquid courage—begin to confront their deepest insecurities and desires. With secret crushes and messy histories bubbling beneath the surface, it quickly turns into a psychological showdown to see who can keep their cool as tensions rise. Meanwhile, Shelby and Cyrus’ romance is hanging by a thread, Forbes is itching for revenge, and everyone’s eyeing Nikki’s influencer lifestyle like it’s the last slice of cake. Chaos is practically guaranteed when emotions run high!
Jardin masterfully blends humor and horror, reflecting the predatory nature of influencer culture. Think of it as a twisted cousin of Sissy, but with its own fabulous flair! The film revels in the absurdity of the drama, especially through Cyrus, whose toxic boyfriend antics are equal parts hilarious and cringeworthy. Morosini brings the character to life, making him as charming as he is unbearable—a total comedic gem! Jardin aptly dubs this an anti-romantic comedy, and he’s absolutely nailed it—viewers might leave feeling a little reflective about their own love lives.
As the game kicks off, the laughter reaches new heights. Each round morphs into a tantalizing masquerade, where anonymity unleashes wild antics and shocking confessions. Friends roast each other with playful impressions until the mood shifts from fun and flirty to dark and intense. Laughter turns to awkwardness as hidden truths spill out, revealing everyone’s inner beasts in a game that’s anything but innocent. It’s a rollercoaster of betrayal and desire, with everyone searching for a fresh start as the tension mounts. The only hiccup comes in the final act, where some lengthy discussions about climaxes slow the momentum, but the film’s quirky charm keeps shining through!
Visually, It’s What’s Inside is an absolute treat, mixing Jardin’s music video flair with the glitz and glam of a high-end soirée! Reuben’s mansion is like a party paradise, featuring dazzling disco-themed rooms and playful sculptures that scream for attention—seriously, a neon “Trauma” sign is just the kind of cheeky touch that shows the film isn’t afraid to dive into its juicy themes. The lighting is totally on point, creating a captivating vibe that swings between vibrant colors and moody shadows, perfectly mirroring the rising tension and drama unfolding. It’s a visual spectacle that’s as entertaining as the plot itself!
Netflix has a true banger on their hands with It’s What’s Inside! This sharp and hilarious take on party games for the self-absorbed elite will have you glued to the screen as the vibe shifts from playful to downright sinister. The ensemble cast is fabulous, serving up boundary-pushing antics that keep you on the edge of your seat. It’s a delightful mash-up of genres, offering a fresh and thrilling ride that feels totally original. This film is a rollercoaster of emotions, exposing the hidden dangers of friendship and ambition. You’ll definitely want to catch every twist and turn of this wild adventure!
Director: Greg Jardin
Cast: Brittany O’Grady, James Morosini, Gavin Leatherwood
Writer: Greg Jardin
Producers: Kate Andrews, Jason Baum, Raul Domingo, William Rosenfeld
Music: Andrew Hewitt
Cinematography: Kevin Fletcher
Editing: Greg Jardin
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