A Must-Watch Visually Haunting Horror Film for Midsommar Enthusiasts

Article Key Points

The Neon Demon and Midsommar, two visually striking horror films, intricately blend the boundaries of beauty and horror by employing distinctive visual techniques to craft an uncanny and disconcerting ambiance.

Both films showcase female protagonists who experience a personal metamorphosis and confront a sense of isolation, utilizing elements of psychological horror to captivate viewers. The Neon Demon delves into the sinister aspects of the fashion industry and the concept of beauty, whereas Midsommar explores the unsettling rituals of a Swedish cult, highlighting the diverse themes and settings present in the horror genre.

Horror is a genre that has the power to evoke fear, suspense, and discomfort in its viewers. While there are many subgenres and styles within horror, few films have been able to achieve the stunning visual aesthetics and psychological impact of Ari Aster’s Midsommar. Released in 2019, this movie combines the unsettling rituals of a cult with a vibrant and breathtaking visual appeal, resulting in critical acclaim and a strong fan base.

For those who were captivated by the chilling beauty and exploration of the human psyche in Midsommar, there is a hidden gem of a film that offers a similar experience. Nicolas Winding Refn’s The Neon Demon shares many of the elements that made Midsommar a memorable watch, providing an opportunity for viewers to be enthralled once again.

Danish director Nicolas Winding Refn garnered widespread recognition and critical acclaim in 2011 with his action drama film Drive. In 2016, he helmed and co-wrote the psychological surreal horror The Neon Demon, which received both praise and mixed reactions. Similarly to Midsommar, The Neon Demon distinguishes itself from other horror movies through its captivating and distinctive visual style. Instead of relying on outdoor landscapes and sunlight, the film opts for surreal and elegant settings adorned with vibrant neon lights. Both films successfully present horror in a visually striking manner by blurring the boundaries between beauty and the macabre. Despite its divisive reception and underwhelming box office performance, The Neon Demon consistently garnered positive acclaim for its unnerving and breathtaking visuals. While not suited for every viewer, it remains a valuable addition to the watchlist of horror genre enthusiasts, fans of cult classics, admirers of Winding Refn's previous works, and followers of Aster's distinct visual style.

What Is The Neon Demon About?

The Neon Demon tells the story of Jesse (Elle Fanning), an aspiring model who moves to Los Angeles with hopes of achieving success in the fashion industry. Initially innocent and eager to be a part of this competitive world, Jesse finds herself consumed by the industry as she starts to achieve recognition. Along the way, she loses her innocence and her rise to fame sparks jealousy and envy among her peers. Jesse's beauty becomes both a blessing and a curse. According to director Nicolas Winding Refn, beauty is a complex and subjective topic that can be superficial, yet also deeply intriguing and controversial. It can be dismissive, cruel, beautiful, satisfying, vulgar, and campy.

The film explores various elements reminiscent of film noir, as previously seen in Nicolas Winding Refn's other works. It delves into the themes of beauty, obsession, and the relentless pursuit of perfection, highlighting the inherent presence of narcissism, shallowness, envy, and manipulation. The horror within The Neon Demon primarily stems from its psychological aspects and unsettling atmosphere; however, it also exposes the extreme lengths individuals are willing to go to maintain their position on top. Additionally, it incorporates surreal and gruesome scenes, accompanied by shocking twists that captivate the audience throughout. These elements, combined with a distinctive visual style, create a simultaneous sense of haunting, grotesqueness, and beauty.

How Is The Neon Demon Similar to Midsommar?

At first glance, The Neon Demon and Midsommar may not appear to have much in common. However, one similarity that stands out is their unique visual styles, which are uncommon in the horror genre. Cinematographers Natasha Braier and Pawel Pogorzelski both use their craft to convey horror in visually stunning settings. They employ similar techniques, including the use of triangles, mirrors, and unsettling close-up shots to depict the emotions and character development of the main characters, without relying on dialogue.

Visually, The Neon Demon immerses viewers in a nighttime world of neon lights and high fashion. It juxtaposes this glamorous aesthetic with haunting and surreal dream-like sequences, showcasing the allure of the fashion industry while also revealing its dark underbelly. On the other hand, Midsommar presents picturesque Swedish landscapes that create a tranquil and peaceful atmosphere. However, when contrasted with the disturbing rituals of the cult, these serene visuals become unsettling and eerie.

More similarities between The Neon Demon and Midsommar:

Both films have female protagonists who have lost their families and their arc begins as they travel to a new place.

The two leads begin their journeys as seemingly innocent newcomers and find themselves drawn into the worlds that surround them.

They both incorporate psychological horror elements.

Both protagonists face isolation and undergo a big transformation by the end.

They both present an unsettling and uncomfortable atmosphere for the audience.

Both films employ surreal and unsettling elements to sustain tension throughout the narrative. Additionally, these artistically ambitious films push the boundaries of the horror genre's conventional storytelling format.

The Neon Demon and Midsommar are distinct films with contrasting narratives and settings. One delves into the world of fashion and beauty, while the other explores the unsettling rituals of a Swedish cult. The Neon Demon takes place in a trendy urban backdrop, whereas Midsommar unfolds in a remote rural area. Both films effectively convey their intended messages and firmly establish their positions within the horror genre. Midsommar has garnered a substantial following, while The Neon Demon, unfortunately, did not achieve commercial success and remains relatively obscure compared to Nicolas Winding Refn's other works. Nevertheless, it is an extraordinary experience that deserves greater recognition and is a must-watch for any fan of Ari Aster’s second film.

Editor's P/S

As a fan of horror movies, I was thrilled to discover The Neon Demon, a visually stunning film that rivals Ari Aster's Midsommar in its ability to create an unsettling and unforgettable atmosphere. Both films feature strong female protagonists who undergo personal transformations while confronting a sense of isolation, and both utilize elements of psychological horror to captivate viewers. However, while Midsommar delves into the unsettling rituals of a Swedish cult, The Neon Demon explores the sinister aspects of the fashion industry and the concept of beauty.

The Neon Demon is a must-watch for fans of Midsommar and horror cinema in general. Its mesmerizing visual aesthetic, captivating performances, and thought-provoking themes make it a film that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled.