My Friend Dahmer

My Friend Dahmer is a 2017 American biographical drama directed by Marc Meyers. Based on the graphic novel of the same name by Derf Backderf, the movie explores the adolescent years of infamous serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer through the eyes of his then schoolmate and acquaintance, played by Alex Wolff. Ross Lynch, in a bold departure from his Disney Channel image, steps into the dark void of Jeffrey Dahmer's character, delivering a remarkable and chilling performance.

Set in the late 70s, the narrative is atmospherically encased in period-appropriate music, clothing, and social norms, which further colors the picture being gradually painted of Dahmer's personality and surroundings. While in no sense a horror film, My Friend Dahmer does an excellent job of sending shivers down the spine, not via traditional scares, but through its glimpse into the early life of a developing monster.

The movie skillfully navigates the fine line between empathy and horror. It portrays Dahmer as a lonely and neglected teenager, struggling with his own perverse desires and inhibitions. His internal turmoil is evidently in osmosis with the unrest at his own home, with Anne Heche brilliantly portraying his mentally disturbed mother. His parents prove largely oblivious to his growing eccentricities, further fueling his isolation.

Ross Lynch's incredible portrayal of Dahmer captures his unsettling outward demeanor, and infuses it with a hint of vulnerability. Even as you find yourself repulsed by his actions, there's a palpable sense of dread about what he might become. The film manages to give Dahmer a sense of humanity - without justifying or glorifying his later actions - a nuance that makes the narrative all the more absorbing.

My Friend Dahmer also visualizes the world around Jeffrey, particularly his high school life. Alex Wolff’s character, Derf Backderf, represents a group of Dahmer’s pseudo-friends who, initially fascinated by his bizarre behavior, form the "Dahmer Fan Club". As the story unfurls, they find themselves increasingly caught in a moral quandary, sometimes laughing at Dahmer’s antics, and at the same time, uneasy about his disturbing tendencies.

The movie stays away from graphic details of Dahmer's gruesome future deeds. Instead, it dials up the creepiness by foreshadowing them: a roadkill obsession, a fascination with bones, the simulated fits staged for attention - all pointing towards the terrifying path that Dahmer would later tread on. This restraint grants the narrative a haunting subtlety while maintaining a respectful distance from the victims of Dahmer's future crimes.

The direction aptly complements the eerie atmosphere, making use of long, drawn-out scenes and an uncanny silence that only amplifies Dahmer’s unnerving aura. The film carefully avoids falling into the trap of sensationalism. Instead, it channels its focus on a careful, sensitive representation of its complicated and equally complex subject.

One of the most profound aspects of My Friend Dahmer is its exploration and handling of Dahmer's sexuality which, from an early age, is shown as something twisted and forbidden for him. His struggle with his homosexual feelings is showcased in a way that feels genuine and cruelly sad, adding further layers to his growing derangement.

My Friend Dahmer shines through its performances, cinematography, and script, showing hints of dark comedy mixed in with the morbidly intriguing character study. The movie never tries to absolve Dahmer of his crimes or offer empty explanations for them. Instead, it's an attempt to trace the genesis of his deviance - a slow, steady descent into a darkness that audiences know will only deepen.

Viewers looking for a gore-fest or a cheap thrill will likely be disappointed. My Friend Dahmer is a meticulous character study – a peak into the life of one of America’s most notorious killers before he was a killer at all. It’s a creepy, uncomfortable, yet oddly fascinating watch that has the power to unsettle and intrigue in equal measure.