“What Comes Around,” released in 2022, is a psychological thriller that explores the insidious nature of grooming and its devastating impact on families. The film masterfully unveils a twisted relationship, forcing audiences to confront uncomfortable truths about trust, manipulation, and the blurred lines between youthful indiscretion and predatory behavior.
The Heart of the Matter: Unpacking the Narrative
At its core, “What Comes Around” grapples with the complexities of online relationships, particularly when a significant age gap exists. The film focuses on Anna, a teenager deeply in love with Eric, a charismatic older man she met online. As their relationship progresses, Anna’s parents, particularly her overprotective father, become increasingly suspicious of Eric’s intentions. The movie skillfully constructs a slow-burn tension, gradually revealing the unsettling truths behind Eric’s seemingly charming façade. The real power of the film lies not just in the shocking revelations but in the nuanced portrayal of Anna’s vulnerability and her parents’ desperate attempts to protect her. It’s a cautionary tale about the dangers lurking in the digital world, emphasizing the importance of open communication and vigilant parenting in the age of online romance.
Delving Deeper: Key Themes and Interpretations
“What Comes Around” is more than just a suspenseful thriller; it’s a powerful commentary on several significant societal issues.
The Perilous Allure of Online Romance
The internet, while offering countless opportunities for connection, also presents significant risks, particularly for young people. “What Comes Around” highlights the dangers of online grooming, where predators use the anonymity and distance of the internet to manipulate and exploit vulnerable individuals. The film underscores the importance of digital literacy and critical thinking for teenagers, encouraging them to question the authenticity of online identities and the motives of strangers.
Parental Anxiety and Control
The film explores the delicate balance between parental protection and suffocating control. Anna’s father, grappling with past trauma and driven by a fierce desire to shield his daughter, becomes increasingly overbearing. “What Comes Around” challenges viewers to consider the effectiveness of overly restrictive parenting and the potential for it to backfire, pushing young people towards secrecy and rebellion. The film suggests that open communication and trust are more effective tools than strict control in navigating the complexities of teenage relationships.
The Long Shadow of Trauma
Past trauma plays a significant role in shaping the characters’ actions and motivations. The film subtly hints at past events that have impacted Anna’s father, driving his obsessive need to protect his daughter. “What Comes Around” suggests that unresolved trauma can cloud judgment and lead to destructive behaviors, both in the victims and the perpetrators of abuse. Understanding the psychological impact of trauma is crucial to comprehending the characters’ choices and the film’s overall message.
FAQs: Unveiling the Nuances of “What Comes Around”
Here are some frequently asked questions to further illuminate the themes and complexities of the film:
FAQ 1: What is the central message of “What Comes Around”?
The central message revolves around the dangers of online grooming, the importance of open communication within families, and the lasting impact of trauma on individual behavior. It serves as a cautionary tale about the blurred lines between seemingly harmless online interactions and predatory behavior.
FAQ 2: How does the film portray the complexities of parental anxiety?
The film portrays parental anxiety through the character of Anna’s father, who, driven by past experiences and a deep-seated fear for his daughter’s safety, struggles to balance protection with respecting her autonomy. This highlights the challenges parents face in navigating the digital age and fostering healthy relationships with their children.
FAQ 3: What are some red flags to look out for in online relationships, as depicted in the movie?
Red flags depicted include: age discrepancies, overly affectionate or romantic overtures early in the relationship, reluctance to meet in person, secrecy surrounding their identity and background, and attempts to isolate the individual from their friends and family.
FAQ 4: How does “What Comes Around” differ from other films about online grooming?
Unlike some films that focus solely on the sensational aspects of online grooming, “What Comes Around” delves into the psychological complexities of both the victim and the perpetrator. It explores the motivations behind the grooming behavior and the lasting emotional scars it leaves behind.
FAQ 5: Does the film offer any solutions or strategies for preventing online grooming?
While not explicitly offering solutions, the film implicitly suggests the importance of open communication between parents and children, digital literacy education for teenagers, and fostering critical thinking skills to identify and avoid potentially harmful online interactions. Empowerment through education is a key takeaway.
FAQ 6: What makes the villain, Eric, so compelling and unsettling?
Eric’s unsettling nature stems from his seemingly charming and charismatic exterior, which masks his predatory intentions. This juxtaposition makes him a particularly effective and disturbing villain, highlighting the deceptive nature of groomers. He is portrayed as someone seemingly normal and appealing, making him all the more dangerous.
FAQ 7: How does the film use suspense and tension to build the narrative?
The film employs a slow-burn approach, gradually revealing unsettling truths about Eric’s past and intentions. This creates a sense of unease and anticipation, keeping the audience on edge and invested in the outcome. The careful pacing and subtle clues contribute to the overall suspense.
FAQ 8: Is “What Comes Around” based on a true story?
While not directly based on a single true story, the film draws inspiration from real-world cases of online grooming and exploitation, making it a relevant and timely exploration of a prevalent issue. The realism of the scenarios amplifies the film’s impact.
FAQ 9: What are the key takeaways for parents watching “What Comes Around”?
For parents, the key takeaways are the importance of staying informed about their children’s online activities, fostering open and honest communication, and creating a safe space for them to discuss their experiences and concerns without judgment. Also, learning about the techniques groomers use is vital.
FAQ 10: How does the film explore the theme of trust?
The film explores the complexities of trust, both within families and in online relationships. It highlights the fragility of trust and the devastating consequences when it is betrayed. The relationship between Anna and her parents is fundamentally tested.
FAQ 11: What role does social media play in the film’s narrative?
Social media serves as both a facilitator of connection and a breeding ground for deception. The film highlights the ease with which individuals can create false identities and manipulate others online, underscoring the need for caution and critical thinking when engaging on social media platforms. It is a constant source of anxiety and potential danger.
FAQ 12: What is the lasting impression “What Comes Around” leaves on the viewer?
“What Comes Around” leaves viewers with a lingering sense of unease and a heightened awareness of the dangers lurking in the digital world. It prompts reflection on the importance of protecting vulnerable individuals from online predators and fostering healthy relationships built on trust and open communication. The impactful ending is designed to resonate long after the credits roll.