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Illuminating the Screen: One-on-one with Jane Schoenbrun on "I Saw the TV Glow"

Jane Schoenbrun is a non-binary filmmaker and writer dedicated to creating and supporting personal, queer cinema. Their body of work includes notable titles like "We're All Going to the World's Fair," "A Self-Induced Hallucination," and the punk rock variety TV show "The Eyeslicer." Schoenbrun’s latest film, "I Saw the TV Glow," has already made waves for its evocative storytelling and nostalgic yet unsettling portrayal of suburban life in the mid-1990s. In this interview, Schoenbrun discusses the inspirations, challenges, and profound personal reflections that shaped this remarkable film.



Congratulations on "I Saw the TV Glow." Can you share the genesis of this film and what inspired you to create it?

Jane Schoenbrun: Thank you. The inspiration for "I Saw the TV Glow" came from my own experiences growing up in the suburbs and the impact of television on my life. As a teenager, I often felt like I was hiding from myself inside the screen, obsessively watching shows that provided a form of escapism. The film emerged from this idea of a late-night TV show that begins to feel more real than reality itself. It’s a metaphor for the struggle of self-recognition and the allure of dissociation through media.


The film’s protagonist, Owen, goes through a profound transformation. Can you tell us more about his journey and how it reflects broader themes?

Jane Schoenbrun: Owen’s journey is about self-discovery and the challenge of facing one's true identity. He is introduced to a mysterious late-night TV show by a classmate, which starts to blur the lines between reality and the supernatural world depicted on the screen. This serves as a coming-out metaphor, reflecting the internal struggle many queer and trans people experience. Owen's story is about breaking free from the constraints of dissociation and societal expectations, and finding the courage to embrace one's authentic self.


The 1990s setting plays a significant role in the film. How did you approach recreating this era, and why was it important to the story?

Jane Schoenbrun: The 1990s were a formative time for me and many others who grew up with the TV shows and cultural phenomena of that decade. To capture the era authentically, we used a combination of 35mm film and VHS to create a visual aesthetic that evokes both nostalgia and a sense of eerie familiarity. The setting is crucial because it was a time when television had a profound impact on our perceptions of reality and self. The analog fandoms and the cultural landscape of the '90s provided the perfect backdrop for a story about self-recognition and identity.


Your casting choices, particularly with non-professional actors, have always been intriguing. How did you approach casting for this film?

Jane Schoenbrun: Casting was a deeply creative process. We wanted actors who could bring authenticity and depth to their roles. Justice Smith, who plays Owen, brought a nuanced and relatable performance, capturing Owen’s anxiety and journey towards self-acceptance. Brigette Lundy-Paine, as Maddy, provided a compelling contrast as the cool older girl who guides Owen. We also included musicians like Phoebe Bridgers and Lindsey Jordan, whose involvement added another layer of authenticity and connection to the film's themes.


"I Saw the TV Glow" tackles complex themes of identity and memory. How did you weave these elements into the narrative structure?

Jane Schoenbrun: The film is structured to reflect the fluidity and unreliability of memory. Owen often addresses the camera, breaking the fourth wall, which adds a meta-narrative layer to the story. This approach allows the audience to question the nature of reality and Owen’s perception of it. The blending of the supernatural TV show with Owen’s real life creates a narrative that challenges viewers to think about how media shapes our identities and memories.


The film’s soundtrack is integral to its atmosphere. Can you discuss how you curated the music and its significance?

Jane Schoenbrun: Music was a crucial element in creating the film’s atmosphere. We wanted the soundtrack to evoke the emotional intensity and nostalgia of the '90s. Working with Alex G, who scored the film, we aimed to capture the melodrama and romance of that era. The inclusion of covers like Snail Mail’s rendition of "Tonight, Tonight" and Yeule’s take on "Anthems for a Seventeen-Year-Old Girl" added layers of meaning and resonance. The music serves as both a tribute to the past and a commentary on how it shapes our present.


"I Saw the TV Glow" deals with the concept of 'the egg crack' in the context of trans experiences. Can you elaborate on this?

Jane Schoenbrun: The 'egg crack' refers to the moment a person realizes they are trans. It’s a pivotal, often painful moment of clarity that can be both liberating and terrifying. In the film, this concept is central to Owen’s journey. He must confront the reality of his identity and decide whether to continue living a half-life or embrace his true self. This theme is woven throughout the film, exploring the dual horror and catharsis of self-discovery and the societal pressures that come with it.


What do you hope audiences take away from "I Saw the TV Glow"?

Jane Schoenbrun: I hope audiences walk away with a deeper understanding of the complexities of identity and the impact of media on our lives. The film is a celebration of queer and trans experiences, and I want it to resonate with those who have felt unseen or misunderstood. Ultimately, it’s about finding the courage to be oneself in a world that often demands conformity. I hope it sparks conversations and reflections on how we see ourselves and each other.


What’s next for you in your filmmaking journey?

Jane Schoenbrun: I’m currently finishing my first novel and exploring new projects that continue to delve into personal and queer narratives. I’m excited to push boundaries and create stories that challenge and inspire. My goal is to keep making films that resonate on a deeply personal level and contribute to a more inclusive and diverse cinematic landscape.


Any final thoughts for our readers?

Jane Schoenbrun: I encourage everyone to embrace the power of storytelling, both as creators and as audiences. Stories have the ability to connect us, challenge us, and help us understand ourselves and the world around us. Thank you for supporting independent cinema and for being part of this journey.

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