In the Earth

Movie Trailer

Release Date
April 16, 2021

Genre
Horror, Thriller, Sci-Fi

Cast & Crew

• Joel Fry as Martin Lowery
• Ellora Torchia as Alma
• Hayley Squires as Olivia Wendle
• Reece Shearsmith as Zach

Director
Ben Wheatley

Other Movies Director is Known For

• Kill List (2011)
• High-Rise (2015)
• Free Fire (2016)
• Rebecca (2020)

Producer
Andrew Starke

Writer
Ben Wheatley

Budget
Estimated $1 million

Production Company
Rook Films, Neon, Protagonist Pictures

Running Time
107 minutes

Languages
English

Maturity Rating
R (for strong violence, grisly images, and language)

Content Advisory

• Graphic violence
• Disturbing imagery
• Psychological horror
• Intense sequences

Movie Story
“In the Earth” is a psychological horror film set against the backdrop of a world ravaged by a deadly virus. The story follows Martin Lowery (Joel Fry), a scientist who embarks on a journey into a dense forest to reach a research site where his colleague, Dr. Olivia Wendle (Hayley Squires), has been studying the symbiotic relationship between nature and humanity.

Accompanied by park guide Alma (Ellora Torchia), Martin sets off on a trek through the forest, but what begins as a scientific expedition quickly turns into a harrowing nightmare. The forest is depicted as a living, breathing entity that exerts a mysterious and malevolent influence on those who enter it. As they venture deeper into the woods, Martin and Alma encounter strange and terrifying phenomena that blur the lines between reality and hallucination.

The pair eventually cross paths with Zach (Reece Shearsmith), a man living in isolation who offers them shelter. However, it soon becomes clear that Zach has his own dark agenda, and the forest’s malevolent forces begin to manifest in increasingly disturbing ways. The film builds tension through its eerie atmosphere, combining elements of folk horror with psychological and ecological themes.

As Martin’s grip on reality begins to slip, the story delves into themes of nature’s power, the fragility of the human mind, and the potential for technology and science to both harm and heal. The film culminates in a surreal and intense confrontation that leaves viewers questioning the true nature of the forest and its connection to the characters’ fate.

Special Effects
“In the Earth” makes effective use of practical effects, eerie sound design, and hallucinatory visuals to create a disorienting and unsettling atmosphere. The film’s special effects are minimal yet impactful, enhancing the psychological horror without overshadowing the narrative. The use of light, sound, and editing plays a significant role in conveying the characters’ descent into madness and the otherworldly presence of the forest.

Box Office Performance
“In the Earth” was released in theaters during the COVID-19 pandemic and had a limited box office run. Despite its modest budget, the film received attention for its timely themes and innovative approach to horror. It garnered a mix of critical acclaim and audience interest, particularly among fans of experimental and psychological horror.

Filming Locations

• Kent, England, UK

Notable Quotes

• “The forest is a living thing. It’s always watching, always listening.” – Alma
• “Nature is all around us. But sometimes, it feels like it’s inside us too.” – Martin Lowery

Behind-the-Scenes
“In the Earth” was conceived and shot during the COVID-19 pandemic, which influenced both its themes and production. Director Ben Wheatley aimed to create a film that reflected the uncertainty and fear of the times, while also exploring humanity’s relationship with nature. The film was shot on a tight schedule with a small crew, adding to its intimate and claustrophobic feel. Wheatley’s decision to blend psychological horror with ecological themes offers a unique and thought-provoking take on the genre.

Awards

• None

Final Verdict
“In the Earth” is a challenging and atmospheric horror film that blends psychological tension with ecological horror. Ben Wheatley’s direction and the film’s unsettling visuals create a disorienting experience that lingers long after the credits roll. The film’s exploration of nature’s power and the human mind’s fragility makes it a compelling watch for fans of experimental horror, though its abstract narrative and disturbing imagery may not appeal to everyone. For those who appreciate a horror film that defies convention and provokes thought, “In the Earth” is a unique and haunting journey.

IMDb Rating
5.2/10