Jane Schoenbrun's 'World's Fair' Film Explores Online Identity

Jane Schoenbrun's debut feature film, "We're All Going to the World's Fair," released in 2021, is a coming-of-age horror narrative that delves into the complexities of online identity and the pervasive sense of isolation experienced by its protagonist. The film, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in 2021, centers on Casey, a teenage girl who becomes increasingly engrossed in an online role-playing game known as the "World's Fair Challenge." This challenge involves participants filming themselves performing a ritualistic act, often involving self-harm or other disturbing behaviors, and sharing the videos online. As Casey immerses herself in this digital world, the lines between her real-life existence and her online persona begin to blur, leading to a disorienting and unsettling experience.

"We're All Going to the World's Fair" distinguishes itself through its lo-fi aesthetic and its focus on atmosphere over conventional jump scares. Schoenbrun employs a handheld camera style and naturalistic lighting to create an intimate and claustrophobic feel, mirroring Casey's own sense of confinement. The film's sound design further enhances this immersive quality, utilizing ambient noises and distorted audio to build tension and unease. The narrative unfolds gradually, allowing the audience to experience Casey's descent into the game's rabbit hole alongside her. The film's exploration of online communities and the performative nature of identity in the digital age resonates with contemporary anxieties about connection and authenticity.

Schoenbrun, who also wrote and directed the film, has been noted for their work in exploring themes of gender identity and liminal spaces in their previous projects. "We're All Going to the World's Fair" can be seen as a continuation of these thematic interests, using the horror genre as a vehicle to examine the psychological impact of digital immersion. The film's critical reception has highlighted its unique approach to horror, with many praising its originality and its ability to evoke a profound sense of dread through subtle means. The film's success at Sundance and subsequent theatrical release have positioned it as a significant independent horror film of its year, sparking discussions about the evolving landscape of online culture and its effect on young people. The film's intimate portrayal of Casey's journey, coupled with its unsettling premise, has cemented its status as a memorable and thought-provoking cinematic work.