'I Saw the TV Glow': A Transgender Journey Through the Prism of a Cult TV Show

Jane Schoenbrun's new film explores the 'egg crack moment' in the trans community, using a cult TV show as a metaphor for self-discovery and acceptance.

Jane Schoenbrun's new film 'I Saw the TV Glow' premiered at Sundance and is set to be A24's biggest horror release of 2024. The film explores the 'egg crack moment' in the trans community, defined as the moment when one admits to being trans.
The film follows two teen outcasts, played by Justice Smith and Brigette Lundy-Paine, who bond over a cult TV show 'The Pink Opaque.' Their obsession with the show begins to blur their perception of reality, leading to surreal and impressionistic scenes.
The film is deeply personal to Schoenbrun, who drew from their own experiences and obsessions to add emotional specificity to every scene. Schoenbrun's own 'egg crack' moment occurred at 32, and they were early in their physical transition when writing the film.
The film is inspired by TV shows of Schoenbrun's youth, such as 'Buffy the Vampire Slayer' and 'The X-Files,' which they clung to because they needed a place that felt magical in a way that real life didn't. These shows provided a glimpse of beauty and love and helped Schoenbrun feel less lonely.
Emma Stone, a producer on the film, was inspired by Schoenbrun's creativity and vision. Schoenbrun hopes their film makes audiences feel seen and less alone, much like their favorite shows and movies did for them.