‘That Movie Leaves You Literally Traumatized’

The 21st century has introduced numerous films addressing the way people process and rationalize trauma, but few are as raw and genuinely impactful as “Mysterious Skin.”

Gregg Araki, a notable figure of the 90s indie film scene, undertook a significant challenge in adapting Scott Heim’s 1995 novel. The story revolves around Neil McCormack, a teen hustler who, as an adult, is drawn exclusively to older men. This behavior stems from his childhood when his Little League coach groomed and raped him one summer in 1981, Kansas. As Neil (played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt) engages in reckless sexual activities, his fellow teammate Brian Lackey (played by Brady Corbet), who suffered the same trauma, immerses himself in fantasies of alien abduction to cope with the abuse.

Araki noted that the authenticity of “Mysterious Skin” arises from its disturbing scenes, offering a look into experiences rarely depicted on film. The film, which debuted in Venice in 2004, portrays young Neil and Brian, played by Chase Ellison and George Webster, respectively, as they endure their coach’s abuse. Neil, as a teenager, misconstrues these experiences as a form of love rather than abuse. His suppressed memories resurface when he moves to New York City and delves deeper into the city’s sex-for-pay scene, where he reconnects with his best friend Wendy (Michelle Trachtenberg).

“Mysterious Skin” provides a glimpse into the complexities of trauma from childhood sexual abuse and its lasting impacts into adulthood. The film’s hallucinatory style, particularly evident in the hyper-stylized scenes of abuse shot head-on, mirrors the mental mechanisms people use to process trauma.

Producing the film posed significant challenges, from working with a limited budget (approximately a million dollars) to casting young actors and assuring their parents about the sensitive subject matter. Araki’s approach to filming, particularly using direct eyelines and subjective POV shots, was inspired by techniques highlighted by Jonathan Demme in “Silence of the Lambs.” This method allowed the audience to experience the trauma more intimately, emphasizing the film’s raw and unfiltered nature.

Casting the young actors necessitated detailed discussions with their parents, explaining how scenes would be shot. Despite the dark subject matter, the young actors enjoyed their time on set. However, for the adults, particularly Joseph Gordon-Levitt, the experience was grueling, especially scenes of intense abuse.

The final product of “Mysterious Skin” bears the hallmark of moments that are deeply unsettling and unforgettable. These moments distinguish the film from others, providing a candid portrayal of trauma that stays with viewers long after the credits roll.

“Mysterious Skin,” celebrating its 20th anniversary next year, still resonates with audiences today. It premiered in a limited release but gained a significant following due to its profound impact. Araki frequently reflects on the resonance of the film, noting how it has triggered deep emotions and memories for many viewers who have experienced similar traumas.

In addition to adapting Heim’s novel, Araki conducted extensive research to understand the prevalence of sexual abuse. He was struck by the alarming statistics, emphasizing that sexual abuse is more common than many realize. This insight added depth to the movie, portraying traumatic experiences as indelible marks on the characters’ lives.

The convergence of Neil and Brian at the film’s conclusion highlights a shared journey toward understanding and confronting their pasts. This cathartic moment is amplified by the evocative music of Sigur Ros’ “Samskeyti,” which, along with the soundtrack featuring Slowdive and the Cocteau Twins, captures the unique 90s vibe integral to Araki’s storytelling.

Securing the rights to this particular Sigur Ros track was a nerve-wracking process for Araki. Its inclusion was so pivotal that he personally appealed to the band, ultimately succeeding in obtaining their permission. The music’s inclusion underscores the emotional crescendo of the film, leaving an indelible mark on its audience.

Source: IndieWire