It Lives Inside

Sam feels pulled between two worlds as she tries to fit in at school and be accepted by her peers. To earn their acceptance she distances herself from her Indian family and the rituals that used to anchor her sense of self. But life grows darker when a mythic demon attaches itself to her former best friend, turning classroom drama into a nightmare, with strange occurrences and escalating fear. As the danger grows, Sam is forced to reckon with the culture she left behind and the family bonds she thought she could shed. She discovers that the heritage she once saw as a burden might actually hold the power to stop the threat. The film follows her uneasy crossroads between belonging and bloodline.

Directed by Bishal Dutta, it stems from an original concept by Ashish Mehta and blends horror with cultural lore. The film, released in 2023 as a modern indie feature, leans on a tense atmosphere and practical effects, supported by a diverse cast. The ensemble delivers a grounded, intimate feel.

The film has grossed about $4.8 million worldwide, reflecting a modest release for a horror title built around a diverse cast. It performed best during its opening weekend in select markets and was praised for its atmosphere.

The movie centers Indian diaspora experiences within a supernatural crisis, pairing Sam's personal struggle with mythic forces. By casting Megan Suri and Neeru Bajwa, it foregrounds representation in horror and prompts conversations about tradition, assimilation, and the balance between family duty and personal dreams.

The film centers on themes of assimilation, family ties, and the pull between tradition and modern life. It uses a tense mood and sharp character work to fuse folklore with teen drama. Audiences have responded to the atmosphere and the cast, while some reviewers call for pacing adjustments.