Compliling Inspirations

IT (2017)
The opening is inspired by IT due to the constant revolving of the scene with disappearances and kids. Also taking inspiration from the balloon in IT signifying Pennywise's presence, which is used as a sign of presence rather than being able to see him, the mask serves as a sign of Griffin's mark or footstep that he already was there, and when found, the damage has already been done. The focus on a young character encountering an unseen threat in an everyday setting further mirrors this influence.

The Strangers (2008)
The film draws from The Strangers in its portrayal of an anonymous antagonist whose lack of identity should be feared, not knowing who or what it is. The use of minimal dialogue, distant framing, and no movement from the masked figure reflects the same unsettling realism, making the threat feel random and unavoidable rather than unknown.

Prisoners (2013)
The strained father–son relationship and emotional aftermath are influenced by Prisoners, especially in showing the parental guilt and helplessness. Cross-cutting between the father’s growing concern and the son’s vulnerability represents the film’s method of building tension through emotional stakes rather than action.

It Follows (2014)
The opening takes a piece from It Follows by using a wide variety of negative space in the outside shot, putting emphasis on the main character but also showing that he is indeed alone and indeed vulnerable. His sudden appearance and disappearance combined with the dolly shot show that his appearance comes as a shock and that seeing him won't lead to the best of times. The inspiration is built through atmosphere and not jump scares