Under the Silver Lake, directed by David Robert Mitchell and released in 2018, is a surreal neo-noir film that blends mystery, conspiracy, and dark humor. Starring Andrew Garfield, the film takes viewers on a bizarre journey through Los Angeles, where hidden codes, secret societies, and Hollywood’s darker side lurk beneath the surface.
The story follows Sam, a disillusioned and unemployed young man living in Los Angeles, who becomes obsessed with finding his missing neighbor, Sarah (played by Riley Keough). After spending a night together, she mysteriously disappears without a trace. Sam embarks on a strange and dreamlike investigation, unraveling a series of cryptic clues that lead him deeper into a world of conspiracies, underground cults, and coded messages hidden in pop culture.
The film pays homage to classic noir detective stories, with Sam playing the role of an amateur investigator who stumbles upon secrets far beyond his understanding. However, Under the Silver Lake stands out by mixing traditional noir elements with absurd and surreal moments. The film’s atmosphere is filled with paranoia, eerie coincidences, and a sense that something larger is lurking just out of reach.
A major theme of the movie is the dark underbelly of Hollywood and modern consumer culture. The film presents a world where the entertainment industry is controlled by secret organizations, where powerful figures manipulate society, and where hidden symbols in music, movies, and magazines may hold the key to a greater truth. Sam’s obsession with uncovering these hidden meanings reflects society’s tendency to search for conspiracies in everyday life.
Andrew Garfield delivers a standout performance as Sam, portraying him as both charming and deeply flawed. His character is cynical, aimless, and increasingly detached from reality as he descends deeper into his obsessive search. The film’s dreamlike cinematography and eerie soundtrack, composed by Disasterpeace, enhance the sense of mystery and unease.
Under the Silver Lake received mixed reviews upon release, with some praising its ambition and others finding its plot too convoluted. However, over time, it has gained a cult following, with fans appreciating its hidden symbolism, complex narrative, and unique take on Los Angeles noir.
For those who enjoy surreal mysteries and films that challenge conventional storytelling, Under the Silver Lake offers a fascinating and thought-provoking experience, leaving viewers questioning what is real and what is simply part of the illusion.