Extreme subjectivity through the camera's proximity to the lead character Chiron, showing us what he sees and hears, including the actors speaking to us through the fourth wall. The overall atmosphere, particularly through the use of sound or lack of it, evokes a feeling a nervous anxiety, making us feel Chiron's anguish, and subsequently used to subvert our expectations. The result is a sustained emotional gut-punch.

Paradoxically, the movie has a sense of realism that's a byproduct of its spoof-like quality. Like when Gale Weathers' cameraman gets his throat slashed, or when Matthew Lillard cries, "my mom and dad are going to be so mad at me." It's feels real because it's funny. The spoofiness both diffuses the horror while making it scarier.

This review may contain spoilers. I can handle the truth.