Among the odder films I’ve seen recently is this comedic dramatic teen horror opus which explores the bizarre phenomenon known as “spontaneous combustion.”  Turns out that spontaneous combustion is an ingenious framework for a horror film because that unexplained and terrifying action functions as a metaphor for other societal conditions and considerations that also face our teenage protagonists.  This unexpected depth and ambiguity provides the film with context that succeeds on several levels, allowing the story to be read in several ways.

Brian Duffield’s film, based on a novel by Aaron Starmer, finds that one particular senior high school class is suddenly plagued by students simply exploding for no identifiable reason.  At first it is just unexplained, but as the body count mounts everyone wonders whether some sinister force is at work, and how combustion can be prevented.  The teens are quarantined and rigorously tested medically; a medicine is discovered which offers some protection.  And then the carnage begins again.

The story centers on Mara (Katherine Langford) and her new friend Dylan (Charlie Plummer).  They develop a relationship even as several of their acquaintances explode without warning in and out of school.  The story works because their budding romance is believable and funny and convincing, and the “wartime” feel gives it urgency.  The dialogue and writing is like Mean Girls in a horror setting, fresh and sassy and ironic yet profound in its way.  About the only aspect which I didn’t appreciate is the constant use of alcohol and drugs, especially within Mara’s circle.  That attitude may make me an old fuddy-duddy but I don’t care; all the drug-taking isn’t attractive or necessary, especially among such young people who should know better.

However, the writing is generally very good.  The film’s only really dull spot occurs during the phase when it seems like things are getting back to normal.  But kudos to Brian Duffield’s script and direction, and the performance of Katherine Langford, who makes Mara a very empathic character.  Mara’s confession at the prom is a highlight, because it shares the concerns of so many of her classmates.  Despite too much drug use and the liberal use of blood splatter, Spontaneous is a movie with real heart and soul, one which deserves to find a wider audience.  And for a film guy like myself its many references and in-jokes are a real treat (love the E. T. references!).  ☆ ☆ ☆.  3 May 2021.