17 reviews
An icky vine-like alien growth is a nuisance that spreads throughout the world, but in time people merely shrug their shoulders and get used to it. In small-town America the "ick" is regarded suspiciously by some including Hank, a science teacher and former football player, and Grace, one of his students. Their distrust is soon validated as the ick springs violently into a new phase of its growth.
The premise of people grown accustomed, careless, and capricious to a demon in their presence, is tantalizing. A monster is seen and ignored. However, beyond this alluring theme, there is little depth to the story, dialogue, characters, acting, and scenes. It is good for some laughs but there is not a lot of thought or creativity on display at this world premiere screening at the Toronto International Film Festival.
The premise of people grown accustomed, careless, and capricious to a demon in their presence, is tantalizing. A monster is seen and ignored. However, beyond this alluring theme, there is little depth to the story, dialogue, characters, acting, and scenes. It is good for some laughs but there is not a lot of thought or creativity on display at this world premiere screening at the Toronto International Film Festival.
- Blue-Grotto
- Sep 26, 2024
- Permalink
Context: I am 60+ now, degreed and experienced in cinema, with three Generation "Z" boys. So this movie is not for me, it's for them. I only give it 6-stars because it misfits my own entertainment needs. I expect teenagers and young adults who were tweens and teens in 2000-2010 will connect with this much better.
That being said, I would describe this as being a hyper-paced satire that pretends to be about horror but is really about our modern culture, especially that which Gen-Z must suffer through.
The Ick, being a familiar but mostly ignored and unexplained creature that suddenly becomes destructive, is a METAPHOR.
It represents cultural rot, something that grows everywhere and we complacently ignore it until it becomes antagonizing, and many of us continue to try ignoring it, or minimizing it, to our demise.
Once you watch this movie with those lenses it begins to make more sense. Listen carefully to the dialog and you'll hear the indoctrination of critical theory (identity politics and oppression narratives), postmodernism (nihilism), postcolonialism (anti-settler narratives), and capitalism vs socialism debates. All of it is not to preach any of these, but to make fun of it. The Ick not one of these things or the other, it's the ignorance, the complacency, the intolerance, and the polarization of these variant invasive philosophies.
You could even frame the Ick as poststructuralism - which is best imagined as a culture-bomb - wherein all of these other ostentatious disciplines are its components.
In effect, the movie is a lot smarter than it appears, but if you are older than Gen-Z and you are not aware of its goals, then it's look completely dumb and a waste of your time. As I say, if that describes you, it wasn't made for you. It was made for the kids who grew up in our mess.
I cannot say its humor made me laugh a lot, but it delivered some chuckles - it's wit is dry and fast so you have to keep up.
I do think that the editing is very choppy though, and doesn't do it service. Had this been smoothed out a little it would have been more palatable.
That being said, I would describe this as being a hyper-paced satire that pretends to be about horror but is really about our modern culture, especially that which Gen-Z must suffer through.
The Ick, being a familiar but mostly ignored and unexplained creature that suddenly becomes destructive, is a METAPHOR.
It represents cultural rot, something that grows everywhere and we complacently ignore it until it becomes antagonizing, and many of us continue to try ignoring it, or minimizing it, to our demise.
Once you watch this movie with those lenses it begins to make more sense. Listen carefully to the dialog and you'll hear the indoctrination of critical theory (identity politics and oppression narratives), postmodernism (nihilism), postcolonialism (anti-settler narratives), and capitalism vs socialism debates. All of it is not to preach any of these, but to make fun of it. The Ick not one of these things or the other, it's the ignorance, the complacency, the intolerance, and the polarization of these variant invasive philosophies.
You could even frame the Ick as poststructuralism - which is best imagined as a culture-bomb - wherein all of these other ostentatious disciplines are its components.
In effect, the movie is a lot smarter than it appears, but if you are older than Gen-Z and you are not aware of its goals, then it's look completely dumb and a waste of your time. As I say, if that describes you, it wasn't made for you. It was made for the kids who grew up in our mess.
I cannot say its humor made me laugh a lot, but it delivered some chuckles - it's wit is dry and fast so you have to keep up.
I do think that the editing is very choppy though, and doesn't do it service. Had this been smoothed out a little it would have been more palatable.
- CSHaviland
- Jul 28, 2025
- Permalink
There is an eight-screen movie theater in my town, and since I'd had some work successes, I wanted to treat myself to a movie. My choices were; yet another Superman reboot, yet another Fantastic Four movie (unsure if reboot or not), yet another Jurassic sequel, Elio, a Smurfs reboot, something called "The Home," and the "How to Train your Dragon live action."
Then, there was this.
It starred Brandon Louth, which made me go hm. Since his turn as the Man of Steel, he has kept fairly busy on television, but I remember his appearance in "Zack and Miri make a porno," which was only a short while after Superman Returns. He seemed animated and relaxed in his role (a very brief but somewhat important one in that movie) and I remember thinking that if they allowed that side of him to come through in his Superman movie it might have been better received.
For the first part, he's in high school and it made me wonder if they used de-aging technology or if, with the makeup he could still look that young even in his mid-40s. I think it might be both. Happily, for the rest of the movie he got to show the side of him that was so appealing in "Zack and Miri."
The movie itself is somewhat of a rapid-fire assault on the senses and is made for a completely different demographic than me. As other reviewers have said, the "Ick" depicted in the movie might be a metaphor for culture rot so prevalent today.
And yes, it does get a little slapdash at the end, but overall it was fun to see a little creativity and fun in a movie for a change. I also got the sense that some of the easter eggs other reviewers have described might reveal themselves more in a repeat viewing.
The length and pacing hit the sweet spots for a movie such as this, and as another reviewer has said, it looks like everybody had a good time making it. I had a good time seeing it, and since Brandon was one of the producers, I want to say thank you to him for turning out something semi-original.
Then, there was this.
It starred Brandon Louth, which made me go hm. Since his turn as the Man of Steel, he has kept fairly busy on television, but I remember his appearance in "Zack and Miri make a porno," which was only a short while after Superman Returns. He seemed animated and relaxed in his role (a very brief but somewhat important one in that movie) and I remember thinking that if they allowed that side of him to come through in his Superman movie it might have been better received.
For the first part, he's in high school and it made me wonder if they used de-aging technology or if, with the makeup he could still look that young even in his mid-40s. I think it might be both. Happily, for the rest of the movie he got to show the side of him that was so appealing in "Zack and Miri."
The movie itself is somewhat of a rapid-fire assault on the senses and is made for a completely different demographic than me. As other reviewers have said, the "Ick" depicted in the movie might be a metaphor for culture rot so prevalent today.
And yes, it does get a little slapdash at the end, but overall it was fun to see a little creativity and fun in a movie for a change. I also got the sense that some of the easter eggs other reviewers have described might reveal themselves more in a repeat viewing.
The length and pacing hit the sweet spots for a movie such as this, and as another reviewer has said, it looks like everybody had a good time making it. I had a good time seeing it, and since Brandon was one of the producers, I want to say thank you to him for turning out something semi-original.
- longcooljolie
- Jul 29, 2025
- Permalink
If you're the kind of genre fan who can't get enough of Cooties, Night of the Creeps, or Jack Brooks: Monster Slayer, then Joseph Kahn's ICK is your next late-night obsession. Equal parts slime soaked satire, throwback creature feature, and goofball gorefest, ICK is a B-movie with A-level confidence, a film that knows exactly what it is and owns it every gloriously gooey step of the way.
Brandon Routh delivers another enjoyable performances as Hank Wallace, a washed-up high school football star turned reluctant science teacher with a personal grudge against mediocrity, and now, apparently, aliens (I think). When a parasitic lifeform begins infecting his sleepy hometown, he's forced to team up with sharp witted student Grace (Malina Weissman, absolutely owning every line) to save the world or at least their zip code.
The script balances absurdity and affection with surprising finesse. While the satire could have easily veered into "try-hard" territory, it never does. Instead, it feels right, organic, self-aware, and just grounded enough to work. Think They Live, but with alien goo and gym class trauma.
Let's talk about that goo. The CGI? Well... it's fine. Serviceable. Some of the larger-scale creature shots look like they were rendered on a monster energy drink budget, but honestly, it just adds to the film's low-fi charm. Would practical effects have elevated it? Absolutely. But in fairness, some of the creature sequences are too bonkers to pull off practically without quadrupling the budget. Thankfully, the film leans into its own ridiculousness, never pretending to be more polished than it is.
Where ICK really surprises is in its heart. Beneath the eye-rolling puns, exploding heads, and sarcastic monologues, there's a genuine emotional throughline. Hank's journey from burnout to unlikely hero has weight.
ICK is exactly what the horror-comedy genre needs more of bold, messy fun with a sharp bite. It's not trying to win awards. It's trying to make you laugh, scream, cheer, and say, "What the hell did I just watch?" and in that, it completely succeeds.
Brandon Routh delivers another enjoyable performances as Hank Wallace, a washed-up high school football star turned reluctant science teacher with a personal grudge against mediocrity, and now, apparently, aliens (I think). When a parasitic lifeform begins infecting his sleepy hometown, he's forced to team up with sharp witted student Grace (Malina Weissman, absolutely owning every line) to save the world or at least their zip code.
The script balances absurdity and affection with surprising finesse. While the satire could have easily veered into "try-hard" territory, it never does. Instead, it feels right, organic, self-aware, and just grounded enough to work. Think They Live, but with alien goo and gym class trauma.
Let's talk about that goo. The CGI? Well... it's fine. Serviceable. Some of the larger-scale creature shots look like they were rendered on a monster energy drink budget, but honestly, it just adds to the film's low-fi charm. Would practical effects have elevated it? Absolutely. But in fairness, some of the creature sequences are too bonkers to pull off practically without quadrupling the budget. Thankfully, the film leans into its own ridiculousness, never pretending to be more polished than it is.
Where ICK really surprises is in its heart. Beneath the eye-rolling puns, exploding heads, and sarcastic monologues, there's a genuine emotional throughline. Hank's journey from burnout to unlikely hero has weight.
ICK is exactly what the horror-comedy genre needs more of bold, messy fun with a sharp bite. It's not trying to win awards. It's trying to make you laugh, scream, cheer, and say, "What the hell did I just watch?" and in that, it completely succeeds.
- nERDbOX_Dave
- Jul 30, 2025
- Permalink
I swear, there is not a camera shot longer than 12 seconds in this entire movie. It is liking watching some random one and a half hour flashback montage scene, it was like the flashback opening of the film just never stopped! Kills the movie. The acting is good, the idea behind the film is okay but I think the director/writer threw too much thought into the ick metaphor and ultimately made it null and void. This should have never got a big screen release. The soundtrack is cancelled out because using tons of different songs for 20 seconds each just gets old however whoever scored the film did an excellent job, shame their talent was wasted on this mess. I definitely know Ick is not the type of film you pay money to watch.
- TheOneThatYouWanted
- Jul 27, 2025
- Permalink
Saw this opening at Screamfest at The Mann Chinese Theatre. Super fun film with a great cast. You can tell watching it that everyone involved had a really great time making the film. It feels like a movie made by people who really love films especially those from the 90s and early 2000s. Parts reminded me of Eight Legged Freaks, the Faculty, and Lawnmower Man. It harkened back to a time when popular horror films were more about having a good time then being a deep intellectual pursuit. Not that I mind a brilliant brain bender, but it is refreshing to see a film not take itself so seriously.
The cast was brilliant. Brandon Routh was incredibly charming and funny as the lead, Mena Suvari was great as well. Malina Weissman really carried the film well with her grounded yet endearing performance. Harrison Cone was hilarious as the overly performative, virtue signaling douchebag. Two great breakout performances came from Taia Sophia and Zeke Donovan Jones. Their awkward goth romance added a ton a heart to the film. I suspect these two actors will be future fan favorites.
The cast was brilliant. Brandon Routh was incredibly charming and funny as the lead, Mena Suvari was great as well. Malina Weissman really carried the film well with her grounded yet endearing performance. Harrison Cone was hilarious as the overly performative, virtue signaling douchebag. Two great breakout performances came from Taia Sophia and Zeke Donovan Jones. Their awkward goth romance added a ton a heart to the film. I suspect these two actors will be future fan favorites.
- keltonjonesfilms
- Oct 11, 2024
- Permalink
I'm going to be honest here.
This film is pretty dumb.
But, while it comes off as random, with a creature whose existence is never explicitly explained.
Kahn admittedly does a competent job providing explanations for the unexplained aspects of the film via subtext.
You just need to wade through the ick, in order to get there...and, well, get what the film is about.
Because we are the ick.
The ick- an invasive alien plant creature that becomes more malevolent, the more it's exposed to modern humanity- is a manifestation of the worst aspects of human nature...our most cringe qualities (think of it kind of like when AI when is exposed to the internet).
Hence why the only people immune to it are those who have been humbled by life.
Take the two main characters, for example.
Both of whom had it all in highschool, only to lose it all in their transition to adulthood, when life gave them a reality check.
The protagonist of the story, having been the highschool quarterback, whose life- after being slated for the NFL- gets upended when he suffers a career ending injury (brought on by the ick) in his final game before going off to college.
And our protaganess (the most divine beauty to ever grace the silver screen), when, despite being the most popular girl in school, isn't able to get into the university of her dreams.
Though, also her best friend (and the boy she likes), who are just kind-hearted nerds in the form of a tortured artist and the smartest girl in school.
The latter being characters that are contrasted by the guy who seems to be, at least, semi-autobiographically based on the director, himself.
Though, not necessarily in a realistic sense.
Rather, how he had fantasized his life could have gone (ie gets rich, and marries the hottest girl in school...even though that, inevitably, leads to his downfall).
On top of that, Kahn clearly incorporates many of his own coming of age influences into the film, as well.
Not only in the form of a large collection of 2000's era music.
But also via other cultural influences.
Like how the main character comes off as a dollar store (read: satirized) version of Bruce Campbell as Ash in Evil Dead (right down to his iconic blue shirt).
And the one young man who is clearly fashioned after Jason Mewes when he plays Jay in the Kevin Smith films.
All in all, the whole thing is akin to a faster paced, horrorified, version of a teenage high school comedy.
Kind of it like a high octane John Hughes film, with more of an Idiocracy vibe.
Hence why I say it's a "dumb" film, despite the interesting easter eggs that are strewn throughout it.
Many of which, apparently, harken back to his earlier films.
The highlight of it all, though, is clearly our young protagoness.
She is, quite literally, a Goddess so divine, she put's Aphrodite to shame (and goddamn did she ever look good at the TIFF Q&A...the epitome of perfection).
And a great actress to boot.
But, did I love the film...well, no.
Not exactly.
It was farrrrrr too reliant upon CGI effects for my personal taste.
But it had it's moments.
As an Evil Dead fanatic, I particularly appreciated the influence he took from that series.
And I've got to give him credit for casting the right actress for the main role.
But it isn't enough to save the film from how dumb it really is.
Though...perhaps that was what he was going for.
3 out of 10.
This film is pretty dumb.
But, while it comes off as random, with a creature whose existence is never explicitly explained.
Kahn admittedly does a competent job providing explanations for the unexplained aspects of the film via subtext.
You just need to wade through the ick, in order to get there...and, well, get what the film is about.
Because we are the ick.
The ick- an invasive alien plant creature that becomes more malevolent, the more it's exposed to modern humanity- is a manifestation of the worst aspects of human nature...our most cringe qualities (think of it kind of like when AI when is exposed to the internet).
Hence why the only people immune to it are those who have been humbled by life.
Take the two main characters, for example.
Both of whom had it all in highschool, only to lose it all in their transition to adulthood, when life gave them a reality check.
The protagonist of the story, having been the highschool quarterback, whose life- after being slated for the NFL- gets upended when he suffers a career ending injury (brought on by the ick) in his final game before going off to college.
And our protaganess (the most divine beauty to ever grace the silver screen), when, despite being the most popular girl in school, isn't able to get into the university of her dreams.
Though, also her best friend (and the boy she likes), who are just kind-hearted nerds in the form of a tortured artist and the smartest girl in school.
The latter being characters that are contrasted by the guy who seems to be, at least, semi-autobiographically based on the director, himself.
Though, not necessarily in a realistic sense.
Rather, how he had fantasized his life could have gone (ie gets rich, and marries the hottest girl in school...even though that, inevitably, leads to his downfall).
On top of that, Kahn clearly incorporates many of his own coming of age influences into the film, as well.
Not only in the form of a large collection of 2000's era music.
But also via other cultural influences.
Like how the main character comes off as a dollar store (read: satirized) version of Bruce Campbell as Ash in Evil Dead (right down to his iconic blue shirt).
And the one young man who is clearly fashioned after Jason Mewes when he plays Jay in the Kevin Smith films.
All in all, the whole thing is akin to a faster paced, horrorified, version of a teenage high school comedy.
Kind of it like a high octane John Hughes film, with more of an Idiocracy vibe.
Hence why I say it's a "dumb" film, despite the interesting easter eggs that are strewn throughout it.
Many of which, apparently, harken back to his earlier films.
The highlight of it all, though, is clearly our young protagoness.
She is, quite literally, a Goddess so divine, she put's Aphrodite to shame (and goddamn did she ever look good at the TIFF Q&A...the epitome of perfection).
And a great actress to boot.
But, did I love the film...well, no.
Not exactly.
It was farrrrrr too reliant upon CGI effects for my personal taste.
But it had it's moments.
As an Evil Dead fanatic, I particularly appreciated the influence he took from that series.
And I've got to give him credit for casting the right actress for the main role.
But it isn't enough to save the film from how dumb it really is.
Though...perhaps that was what he was going for.
3 out of 10.
- meddlecore
- Sep 15, 2024
- Permalink
Saw it on opening night at ScreamFest 2024 in LA. Was absolutely hysterical. Moves at TikTok speed and passes by very quickly even though it's not a short movie. The direction was great, the pace was quick, the cast was strong, and the soundtrack was incredible. Overall the movie was fun, satirical, and a good mix of jump scares and laugh-out-loud moments. I can't remember the last time I saw a cast that was this strong in a film that was relevant for my generation. Old people might not get it, but if you grew up in the early 2000's and after, you will.
This film won't cast a light on big world issues, but it will make you laugh at how terrible humanity is. Ick is the kind of movie you'll watch over and over again to discover new funny details in you hadn't noticed before. Ick is awesome and one-of-a-kind in the best way possible. Would highly recommend!
This film won't cast a light on big world issues, but it will make you laugh at how terrible humanity is. Ick is the kind of movie you'll watch over and over again to discover new funny details in you hadn't noticed before. Ick is awesome and one-of-a-kind in the best way possible. Would highly recommend!
- manojrao-44942
- Oct 10, 2024
- Permalink
Oh, what an absolute blast! This is genuinely some of the most fun I've had with any movie in theaters this year. I loved everything about it. Legendary music video director Joseph Kahn brings a vision to life here that harkens back to such a specific period of time. It fits right in with so many movies of the era it's emulating. Visually, it's quite incredible and I found myself in awe of what was being brought to the screen. The craft displayed here is masterful, and Kahn commits to his bold concept all the way through. It is so kinetic, imaginative, and has a powerful energy, moving seamlessly from shot to shot in a way that feels natural to the film's style. The production design is amazing. The film is honestly enchanting and just oozes charm. It wastes no time and throws you right in. So much is happening within the frame and the pace is nonstop - but as fast as this film goes, it never loses you. The aesthetic itself makes it feel like a feature length music video, and I mean that in the best way. It's defined especially by its unbelievable soundtrack, which is maybe the most impressive curation of songs I've seen in a long time. This is seriously a soundtrack that someone would only dream of having in their film. They're just INSANE needle drops, and I give major props to the team for being able to lock down all of them. I was truly blown away. We were cheering!
As Kahn mentioned in his intro to the film, he has as many creature jumpscares as he does punk rock jumpscares. The music of the All-American Rejects, Good Charlotte, Wheatus, Creed, Paramore and tons of other great bands popping up throughout the film instantly brought me back to my childhood, when my sisters were in high school and I was growing up with the songs they played. It was amazing to hear all this music in a feature film, and especially with the context of which they were used. Their place in the film feels quite motivated, as the story has a focus on the disconnect (and also similarities) between the generation of teens from the 90s/00s and those of today. Telling a modern story while using nostalgic music like this really worked to get into the headspace of Hank, played so brilliantly by Brandon Routh (who absolutely needs more starring roles today). I found him to be an excellent protagonist with a really compelling arc. I loved his transition from all-star quarterback/prom king to a broken man, stuck in one spot, whose life didn't go as planned. The opening perfectly depicts his tragic downfall, and the remainder of the film allows us to explore him as a character. He has to battle his past and the direction his life took, while also trying to move forward and own up to his newfound discovery of responsibility. The Ick itself serves as a clear allegory for the pandemic and how our society has handled it, but I think it doubles as a representation of the force that holds us back and keeps us stuck in the past. The film is all about the fact that we can't fix our mistakes, but we can move forward from them. Hank's leg is a constant reminder of this. So many are quick to embrace the problem as the solution, but it takes effort to be better and create progression in your life. I thought it was a beautifully heartfelt story to be told in a dark time of our world currently.
Also, like this month's Eddington, it makes hilarious commentary about insane people willing to get infected in the name of freedom, as well as teens using social awareness as a tool for selfish reasons. It gives us a very funny satirical look at different generations and ideologies that made me laugh, showing absurdities from all sides. I think I was smiling throughout the entire movie. It's so clever and has a heart of gold. Routh is immensely great in the film, and I dug how he played off of Malina Weissman (who heavily reminded me of Sabrina Carpenter). She was awesome here and clearly has a bright career ahead of her. I also can't stress how happy it made me to see Mena Suvari in the film, who is just a staple of so many 90s teen films. Her appearance in the opening could've been pulled straight from one of her older movies and I wouldn't have batted an eye. Such a cool meta role to include her in. Our theater also showed American Beauty and American Pie this month, making it an unofficial Mena Suvari month! This was just such a refreshing movie that blends a 2000s coming of age tone with a social satire/creature feature, soaring at every genre it taps into. It's full of endearing characters and performances, very impressive VFX work, a generationally great soundtrack, and the movie does not overstay its welcome at all. What a gem and a smart throwback film - I will definitely be rewatching this and I hope everyone gets the chance to see it this week! I wish it was getting a wider release. I desperately need to seek out Joseph Kahn's other movies and can't wait to see what else he has in store! This simply rules.
As Kahn mentioned in his intro to the film, he has as many creature jumpscares as he does punk rock jumpscares. The music of the All-American Rejects, Good Charlotte, Wheatus, Creed, Paramore and tons of other great bands popping up throughout the film instantly brought me back to my childhood, when my sisters were in high school and I was growing up with the songs they played. It was amazing to hear all this music in a feature film, and especially with the context of which they were used. Their place in the film feels quite motivated, as the story has a focus on the disconnect (and also similarities) between the generation of teens from the 90s/00s and those of today. Telling a modern story while using nostalgic music like this really worked to get into the headspace of Hank, played so brilliantly by Brandon Routh (who absolutely needs more starring roles today). I found him to be an excellent protagonist with a really compelling arc. I loved his transition from all-star quarterback/prom king to a broken man, stuck in one spot, whose life didn't go as planned. The opening perfectly depicts his tragic downfall, and the remainder of the film allows us to explore him as a character. He has to battle his past and the direction his life took, while also trying to move forward and own up to his newfound discovery of responsibility. The Ick itself serves as a clear allegory for the pandemic and how our society has handled it, but I think it doubles as a representation of the force that holds us back and keeps us stuck in the past. The film is all about the fact that we can't fix our mistakes, but we can move forward from them. Hank's leg is a constant reminder of this. So many are quick to embrace the problem as the solution, but it takes effort to be better and create progression in your life. I thought it was a beautifully heartfelt story to be told in a dark time of our world currently.
Also, like this month's Eddington, it makes hilarious commentary about insane people willing to get infected in the name of freedom, as well as teens using social awareness as a tool for selfish reasons. It gives us a very funny satirical look at different generations and ideologies that made me laugh, showing absurdities from all sides. I think I was smiling throughout the entire movie. It's so clever and has a heart of gold. Routh is immensely great in the film, and I dug how he played off of Malina Weissman (who heavily reminded me of Sabrina Carpenter). She was awesome here and clearly has a bright career ahead of her. I also can't stress how happy it made me to see Mena Suvari in the film, who is just a staple of so many 90s teen films. Her appearance in the opening could've been pulled straight from one of her older movies and I wouldn't have batted an eye. Such a cool meta role to include her in. Our theater also showed American Beauty and American Pie this month, making it an unofficial Mena Suvari month! This was just such a refreshing movie that blends a 2000s coming of age tone with a social satire/creature feature, soaring at every genre it taps into. It's full of endearing characters and performances, very impressive VFX work, a generationally great soundtrack, and the movie does not overstay its welcome at all. What a gem and a smart throwback film - I will definitely be rewatching this and I hope everyone gets the chance to see it this week! I wish it was getting a wider release. I desperately need to seek out Joseph Kahn's other movies and can't wait to see what else he has in store! This simply rules.
- its_g_unit
- Jul 26, 2025
- Permalink
This movie is fast, fun and funny. Something for everyone and yet great for young adults.
Saw this at the Overlook and fell for it. Malina is a tour de force and is the best young actress that you haven't heard of. Brandon Routh doesn't seem to age... wasn't he Superman 20 years ago and he looks exactly the same.
What won't you love? This movie does not treat the stakes very seriously nor is the timeline that important. It can be challenging at first but you have to realize quickly that it's not just another movie... this is something different.
I hope to see all of you at midnight screenings of this in 20 years.
Saw this at the Overlook and fell for it. Malina is a tour de force and is the best young actress that you haven't heard of. Brandon Routh doesn't seem to age... wasn't he Superman 20 years ago and he looks exactly the same.
What won't you love? This movie does not treat the stakes very seriously nor is the timeline that important. It can be challenging at first but you have to realize quickly that it's not just another movie... this is something different.
I hope to see all of you at midnight screenings of this in 20 years.
- murdermysterydetective
- Apr 4, 2025
- Permalink
I just got the opportunity to see this movie tonight and had to review, full disclosure, I created an IMDb acct just so I could give this movie it's well deserved rating so here goes...
The movie opened with a foreword... preamble... whatever the intro would be labeled - featuring director Joseph Kahn and one of the Greatest of All Time "American Rejects" Tyson Ritter (tying with Nick Wheeler of course) warning the viewers of both the horror jumps scares and pop/punk jump scares and after having seen the trailer I was prepared for what I was walking into, or so I thought....
This movie is a fresh take on the teen horror genre of drive-in double feature matinees gone by. While the premise may seem familiar: i.e. Small town, creeping horror, teenagers, etc., that's simply the shiny wrapping on the best gift the cinema goer will receive from any modern filmmaker. As a reviewer I'd like to gush over how phenomenally well put together this film was but I'm not getting paid by the word and for the 5 or 6 people still reading this already long winded opinion, you won't want to miss this movie! The successful pairing of Brandon Routh and Mena Suvari and the unique departure from traditional storytelling with regards to their relationship and this genre along with the magnetic performances of costars Malina Weissman and third act performance that gave Taia Sophia a broader platform to shine make this movie a trans generational winner. The soundtrack fired out so many bangers (we were warned) it was hard to pay attention to the dialogue in some scenes due to my ADHD raddled brain singing along. From the cast, to the soundtrack, to the story, this movie has charm, charisma and the kind of heart that the modern era will allow - not too schmaltzy but perfectly balanced between the Millennial and Gen Z leads to thoughtfully showcase the tender caring that's often shielded and coated in callous deflection. I had opportunity and good fortune to catch this film in a limited release showing but if you can, I recommend seeing this at the cinema, 'Ick' definitely has a high rewatchability factor and gravitas of story, cast and score that will make this film a classic.
Btw, when the film says comedy, I've not heard people audibly laugh as much in a movie as I did watching this. EXCELLENT horror comedy film! The jokes are clever with much needed jabs and subtle commentary of the current culture that has become so out of hand and blasé. Keep an eye out for MadTV alum Debra Wilson, she did not miss a beat and in the screen time allotted her in this film, I'd say she stole every scene she was in!
In the cliché words of critics everywhere "This film is the most fun I've had at the cinema in years!"
10/10 only because I can't game IMDb to rate higher!
If anyone affiliated with the making of this film reads this review, an earnest thanks from the bottom of my heart - and congratulations on making something that actually was worth the price of admission!
The movie opened with a foreword... preamble... whatever the intro would be labeled - featuring director Joseph Kahn and one of the Greatest of All Time "American Rejects" Tyson Ritter (tying with Nick Wheeler of course) warning the viewers of both the horror jumps scares and pop/punk jump scares and after having seen the trailer I was prepared for what I was walking into, or so I thought....
This movie is a fresh take on the teen horror genre of drive-in double feature matinees gone by. While the premise may seem familiar: i.e. Small town, creeping horror, teenagers, etc., that's simply the shiny wrapping on the best gift the cinema goer will receive from any modern filmmaker. As a reviewer I'd like to gush over how phenomenally well put together this film was but I'm not getting paid by the word and for the 5 or 6 people still reading this already long winded opinion, you won't want to miss this movie! The successful pairing of Brandon Routh and Mena Suvari and the unique departure from traditional storytelling with regards to their relationship and this genre along with the magnetic performances of costars Malina Weissman and third act performance that gave Taia Sophia a broader platform to shine make this movie a trans generational winner. The soundtrack fired out so many bangers (we were warned) it was hard to pay attention to the dialogue in some scenes due to my ADHD raddled brain singing along. From the cast, to the soundtrack, to the story, this movie has charm, charisma and the kind of heart that the modern era will allow - not too schmaltzy but perfectly balanced between the Millennial and Gen Z leads to thoughtfully showcase the tender caring that's often shielded and coated in callous deflection. I had opportunity and good fortune to catch this film in a limited release showing but if you can, I recommend seeing this at the cinema, 'Ick' definitely has a high rewatchability factor and gravitas of story, cast and score that will make this film a classic.
Btw, when the film says comedy, I've not heard people audibly laugh as much in a movie as I did watching this. EXCELLENT horror comedy film! The jokes are clever with much needed jabs and subtle commentary of the current culture that has become so out of hand and blasé. Keep an eye out for MadTV alum Debra Wilson, she did not miss a beat and in the screen time allotted her in this film, I'd say she stole every scene she was in!
In the cliché words of critics everywhere "This film is the most fun I've had at the cinema in years!"
10/10 only because I can't game IMDb to rate higher!
If anyone affiliated with the making of this film reads this review, an earnest thanks from the bottom of my heart - and congratulations on making something that actually was worth the price of admission!
- CHRISA-592
- Jul 28, 2025
- Permalink
ICK is honestly one of the most electric and inventive films I've seen in a while. It's a 2000s-infused creature feature with incredible performances by some of the best/most iconic names of the 2000s as well as a bunch who got to grow up watching these people. It had to have hit Malina Weissman at least once her teacher/father figure in the film was Superman.
Anyways, the script was super fun and extremely self-aware. It wasn't eye-rolly either. It actually had something to say and said it in a way that was exciting while also getting the message across. It was also a breath of fresh air to see a film that was actually directed and not shot on telephoto lenses at several points throughout the room. Each shot was meticulously crafted, blocked and executed. I mentioned Routh and Weissman before, but they were the heartbeat and soul of this film. Weissman specifically though has the chops that could definitely blow some A-listers out of the water. I know she came from A Series of Unfortunate Events working with Neil Patrick Harris, but her charm and charisma flows through the theater. Her chemistry with Routh too was so dynamic, and their banter literally made the movie that much more fun. The ick itself as an allegory for COVID was very fun to digest and allowed for the film to look upward towards a brighter future if we were to take a step against the societal woes that locked is inside the pandemic for so long. This movie just proves that you can use the medium of movies and storytelling to inspire instead of just depicting pure cynicism on screen for two hours. I can't believe I've gotten this far too without mentioning the soundtrack, and it was absolutely beautiful to be able to hear the soundtrack of my childhood to destroying monsters and fighting for what you believe in. It just reinvigorated my love for the medium, and I IMPLORE that EVERYONE go out and see this over the next couple days. You won't regret just having a blast at the movies!
IT'S WHAT WE GO TO THE MOVIES FOR!!!
Anyways, the script was super fun and extremely self-aware. It wasn't eye-rolly either. It actually had something to say and said it in a way that was exciting while also getting the message across. It was also a breath of fresh air to see a film that was actually directed and not shot on telephoto lenses at several points throughout the room. Each shot was meticulously crafted, blocked and executed. I mentioned Routh and Weissman before, but they were the heartbeat and soul of this film. Weissman specifically though has the chops that could definitely blow some A-listers out of the water. I know she came from A Series of Unfortunate Events working with Neil Patrick Harris, but her charm and charisma flows through the theater. Her chemistry with Routh too was so dynamic, and their banter literally made the movie that much more fun. The ick itself as an allegory for COVID was very fun to digest and allowed for the film to look upward towards a brighter future if we were to take a step against the societal woes that locked is inside the pandemic for so long. This movie just proves that you can use the medium of movies and storytelling to inspire instead of just depicting pure cynicism on screen for two hours. I can't believe I've gotten this far too without mentioning the soundtrack, and it was absolutely beautiful to be able to hear the soundtrack of my childhood to destroying monsters and fighting for what you believe in. It just reinvigorated my love for the medium, and I IMPLORE that EVERYONE go out and see this over the next couple days. You won't regret just having a blast at the movies!
IT'S WHAT WE GO TO THE MOVIES FOR!!!
'Ick' reminds me of Scott Pilgrim vs. The World. I saw it at a pre-screening with Q&A which was great. The quick timing, quirky humor, and surreal fantasy elements all hit that same sweet spot. The kitschy tone gives it a nostalgic charm that really pulled me in. Visually playful and overall good time film, I loved this movie!
- owest-41513
- Jul 25, 2025
- Permalink
I missed a little bit cause I saw The Home right before this but what I experienced Ick was so great! Nice campy vibes, Brandon Routh has never done horror before and he's awesome in it as Mr. Wallace/ Dad lol. Crazy this costed 19 bucks as a fathom event to see but I'm glad I did and the girl that played Grace is so beautiful!
- UniqueParticle
- Jul 26, 2025
- Permalink
Ick (2025) is a science fiction horror comedy movie written and directed by Joseph Kahn. This is a movie I heard about from Fantastic Fest last year and I have been waiting to watch and I got to say the movie was great.
Positives for Ick (2025): This movie has a good amount of campiness that had me smiling. You have a great and energetic cast with Brandon Routh, Malina Weissman, Harrison Cone, Jeff Fahey and Mena Suvari. There is some great use of music that felt nostalgic to me with some of the songs. The aliens are quite unique with their design and there is this "Invasion of the Body Snatchers" vibe to them. The movie is paced very well with its short runtime and it wasn't boring to watch. And finally, this is the type of horror movie that would be good for a hangout with some friends.
Negatives for Ick (2025): There are some storylines that didn't need to be there like the conflict between Brandon Routh and Malina Weissman as it felt forced into the movie and we really didn't need it. It was bizarre to see Brandon Routh trying to be a teenager in high school especially when he is 45. And finally, the movie needed to be longer as I wanted more to watch and that is actually a good thing to say for your movie.
Overall, Ick (2025) is a fun time for horror fans and science fiction fans around the world. This is one of those horror movies where you can watch and have fun with it.
Positives for Ick (2025): This movie has a good amount of campiness that had me smiling. You have a great and energetic cast with Brandon Routh, Malina Weissman, Harrison Cone, Jeff Fahey and Mena Suvari. There is some great use of music that felt nostalgic to me with some of the songs. The aliens are quite unique with their design and there is this "Invasion of the Body Snatchers" vibe to them. The movie is paced very well with its short runtime and it wasn't boring to watch. And finally, this is the type of horror movie that would be good for a hangout with some friends.
Negatives for Ick (2025): There are some storylines that didn't need to be there like the conflict between Brandon Routh and Malina Weissman as it felt forced into the movie and we really didn't need it. It was bizarre to see Brandon Routh trying to be a teenager in high school especially when he is 45. And finally, the movie needed to be longer as I wanted more to watch and that is actually a good thing to say for your movie.
Overall, Ick (2025) is a fun time for horror fans and science fiction fans around the world. This is one of those horror movies where you can watch and have fun with it.
- jared-25331
- Aug 3, 2025
- Permalink
ICK is a gnarly teen creature-feature that knows exactly when to put a mirror up to the world, and when to smash it to pieces with vicious (often hilarious) monster action.
The whole film is supercharged with fourth-dimensional filmmaking, electric performances, and a soundtrack with enough 2000s heat to sell out Warped Tour. A superb Brandon Routh and rapidly-rising star Melina Weissman carry the film's heart through a chaotic storm of humor and terror and liminal moments (which are probably the scariest parts).
As usual, Kahn's film feels five steps ahead with a goofy, power pop PG-13 monster movie that also, you know... directly identifies the core civilizational horror of this moment we're in, right now, all of us, where everyone sees the same storm clouds but keep scrolling and swiping anyway. Parents are as oblivious as teens. Politics are just memes bouncing off of a sticky, deadly reality that no one knows what to do with.
Kahn's camera -often from the ripping, roaring, tentacle-y POV of the ICK itself- is as eager and inventive as ever, while giving the small human moments the power they need to matter in the face of a very gross apocalypse.
The ICK is a new classic monster, moving and absorbing and terrorizing with its own unique, gooey sensibility. It's frightening and ominous whether it's lingering quietly or loudly annihilating people (which it does, a lot). It's a monster, a virus, a cult, and a personalized psychological nightmare all bundled together. It makes villains out of anyone, turning loved ones against you and giving assholes monstrous power.
The ICK is certainly blobby, and it will draw comparisons to those films, but really it's more like someone let loose John Carpenter's The Thing in a high school with Y2K bangers looping on the intercom, which is way better.
All great horror films have a heart that oozes with some kind of scary truth...
The ICK knows us. It meets our petty distractions and self-absorptions with a body-snatching, flesh-absorbing promise to make everything easier. No more loneliness or worrying about your dreams. It lingers in the shadows of our divided attention and our divided selves.
Thankfully it's all just a movie right? Keep scrolling!
The whole film is supercharged with fourth-dimensional filmmaking, electric performances, and a soundtrack with enough 2000s heat to sell out Warped Tour. A superb Brandon Routh and rapidly-rising star Melina Weissman carry the film's heart through a chaotic storm of humor and terror and liminal moments (which are probably the scariest parts).
As usual, Kahn's film feels five steps ahead with a goofy, power pop PG-13 monster movie that also, you know... directly identifies the core civilizational horror of this moment we're in, right now, all of us, where everyone sees the same storm clouds but keep scrolling and swiping anyway. Parents are as oblivious as teens. Politics are just memes bouncing off of a sticky, deadly reality that no one knows what to do with.
Kahn's camera -often from the ripping, roaring, tentacle-y POV of the ICK itself- is as eager and inventive as ever, while giving the small human moments the power they need to matter in the face of a very gross apocalypse.
The ICK is a new classic monster, moving and absorbing and terrorizing with its own unique, gooey sensibility. It's frightening and ominous whether it's lingering quietly or loudly annihilating people (which it does, a lot). It's a monster, a virus, a cult, and a personalized psychological nightmare all bundled together. It makes villains out of anyone, turning loved ones against you and giving assholes monstrous power.
The ICK is certainly blobby, and it will draw comparisons to those films, but really it's more like someone let loose John Carpenter's The Thing in a high school with Y2K bangers looping on the intercom, which is way better.
All great horror films have a heart that oozes with some kind of scary truth...
The ICK knows us. It meets our petty distractions and self-absorptions with a body-snatching, flesh-absorbing promise to make everything easier. No more loneliness or worrying about your dreams. It lingers in the shadows of our divided attention and our divided selves.
Thankfully it's all just a movie right? Keep scrolling!