There’s a new horror film chilling audiences on Prime Video, and it’s not your typical jump-scare fest. This darkly comedic and visually stunning nightmare boasts a whopping 92% rating on Rotten Tomatoes and a strong 81 on Metacritic, leaving critics and viewers alike both bewildered and wanting more.
Directed by the enigmatic Peter Strickland, the name behind other unsettling yet acclaimed films like “The Duke of Burgundy” and “Flux Gourmet” (2022), “In Fabric” weaves a twisted tale unlike anything you’ve seen before. Strickland is known for his meticulous attention to detail and his ability to create unsettling atmospheres, and “In Fabric” is no exception.
The film’s inspiration draws from some rather curious places. Director Peter Strickland himself has spoken about how the film’s unsettling atmosphere was influenced by his childhood memories of department stores, particularly the now-closed Jackson head branch in Reading, Berkshire. These grand, opulent stores, with their seemingly endless rows of clothing, can feel strangely labyrinthine and isolating, a feeling Strickland masterfully translates to the film. He also cites the treasure trove of unique finds one can unearth in second-hand shops as a source of inspiration. There’s something undeniably unsettling about wearing a piece of clothing with an unknown history, and Strickland uses this to great effect in the film.
The film follows two seemingly unconnected stories that become horrifyingly intertwined. There’s Sheila (Marianne Jean-Baptiste), a frustrated woman on the hunt for the perfect dress, and Reg (Julian Barratt), a down-on-his-luck parolee. Their paths cross at a peculiar London department store called Dentley & Soames, where both become enamored with a particular crimson dress. Little do they know, the dress harbors a dark secret, and whoever possesses it falls victim to a series of strange and terrifying misfortunes.
“In Fabric” isn’t your traditional horror film with blood and gore. The horror comes from a sense of unease and a creeping dread that builds throughout the film. The vibrant color palette and striking visuals create a dreamlike atmosphere that feels both beautiful and unsettling. The film also has a strong satirical streak, taking aim at consumerism and the dark underbelly of the fashion industry.
So, why should you add “In Fabric” to your Prime Video watchlist? If you’re looking for a horror film that’s more than just jump scares and cheap thrills, this is the movie for you. “In Fabric” is a slow burn that will stay with you long after the credits roll. It’s a film that will make you think, question, and maybe even check the tags on your clothes a little more closely. Just don’t say we didn’t warn you.
