Let’s dive into Jennifer’s Body, a horror-comedy best approached with a pinch of humor and an open mind. Released in 2009, this offbeat film stars Megan Fox as the titular Jennifer—a demonic cheerleader with a penchant for devouring high school boys—and Amanda Seyfried as her conflicted best friend.
The Plot: Demonic Drama Meets High School Angst
Megan Fox summed up her character with a mix of dark comedy and pathos:
“Jennifer is a seemingly very surface shallow high school kid, but she has a lot of very deep insecurities and she preys on her best friend. They are in a really unhealthy relationship. She ends up getting sacrificed by a band that sold their souls to Satan, and she has to start eating boys to stay alive.”
With a premise like that, it’s clear this film wasn’t aiming for subtlety. It leans into its absurdity, delivering a feminist slasher flick wrapped in biting satire.
The Physical Transformation of Megan Fox
To embody her supernatural character, Megan Fox lost 15 pounds, bringing her weight down to a frail 97 pounds. She also avoided sunlight to maintain a pale, ethereal look. Fox’s physicality was undeniably integral to her portrayal of Jennifer, a character whose allure is both weapon and curse.
Misguided Marketing: A Missed Opportunity
While the movie boasts strong feminist themes, its marketing campaign entirely missed the mark. An all-male team focused almost exclusively on Fox’s sex appeal, sidelining the film’s deeper commentary. At one point, they even considered having Fox participate in live chats on adult websites—a notion director Karyn Kusama shut down, recognizing its potential to damage the actress’s confidence.
Despite these setbacks, Jennifer’s Body has since been embraced by a devoted audience that appreciates its layered storytelling and sharp commentary on gender dynamics.
The Infamous Kiss
One of the film’s most talked-about scenes features a passionate kiss between Megan Fox and Amanda Seyfried. While undeniably attention-grabbing, both actresses found the moment awkward to film.
Fox admitted:
“It’s really awkward to watch. Do you feel awkward watching it? I feel awkward watching it. But it serves its purpose and it’s not gratuitous in the movie.”
Seyfried added:
“It’s uncomfortable, but it turned out really well. There was a good meaning behind it, although I can’t say I know it’s not going to… stick around.”
From Box Office Flop to Cult Favorite
Jennifer’s Body struggled at the box office and received mixed reviews upon release. Critics failed to grasp its feminist subtext, and audiences, swayed by the misleading marketing, dismissed it as another shallow teen horror film. Over time, however, its reputation has shifted. The movie now frequently appears on lists of underrated films, celebrated for its wit, subversive themes, and standout performances.
Why You Should Revisit ‘Jennifer’s Body’
If you’re seeking something spooky yet satirical to watch this Halloween, Jennifer’s Body deserves a second look. It’s a film that benefits from not being taken too seriously but rewards viewers with sharp humor, clever commentary, and plenty of chills. Don’t let its initial reception fool you—this is a horror flick with a bite.
