Nerdly » ‘We’re All Going To The World’s Fair’ Review

25th Apr2022

‘We’re All Going To The World’s Fair’ Review

by Alain Elliott

Stars: Anna Cobb, Holly Anne Frink, Michael J Rogers | Written and Directed by Jane Schoenbrun

Long titles seem to be a bit of a trend when it comes to both books and film. Even more so in the genre. But I can see why because they always gain my interest and We’re All Going To The World’s Fair is no different.

It is a title though that doesn’t really give away anything as far as what the film is about. Showing a teenager in front of her computer screen for big parts of the film, ‘World’s Fair’ is the story of that teenager and her immersion into an online role-playing horror game. Alone in her attic bedroom she begins to document the changes that may or may not be happening to her.

There have been more and more movies that are shot from a computer or phone screen. Often in the horror genre, films like Unfriended (and its sequel), Searching and others have shown that it is possible to make very good, scary and entertaining movies with this method. We’re All Going To The World’s Fair opts to not quite use this throughout its runtime but there is a lot of the movie shot this way.

And this choice is key to the film. It just wouldn’t work quite as well as it does if it was shot in a more conventional style. It’s a huge part of making that central character feel as isolated as she is. Or at least as isolated as she thinks she is. It also helps show how her mind is working and how she is feeling in a very specific way. It’s easy to understand her loneliness and of course, for many people watching, it is 100% relatable.

Of course, even with all that, it wouldn’t work as well if the lead actress didn’t put in a good performance but Anna Cobb as Casey is very very good. Clearly throws herself into the role with everything she has and it shows. Obviously, with this type of film she is acting alongside herself and not much else, which isn’t easy but despite her inexperience she does well. Michael J. Rodgers plays the only other notable (and important) role. A much more experienced actor who also seems to know the character perfectly and puts in a strong performance.

We’re All Going To The World’s Fair isn’t the most eventful of movies though. Some people won’t enjoy the slow pace and the slightly more subtle approach it goes with when following the lead character and where her life is heading. But it simply wouldn’t work any other way.

First-time writer/director Jane Schoenbrun has created a really raw and original indie movie with We’re All Going To The World’s Fair and she shows a real eye for capturing the emotion of the characters. This won’t be everyone’s cup of tea but there’s much to be impressed with here in a film that will grip and hit hard with many viewers.