# We’re All Going to the World’s Fair: An Intimate Coming-of-Age Horror A horror film about a young girl's search for belonging in the digital world. - **Source:** [The Verge (theverge.com)](https://www.theverge.com) - **Published:** 2026-08-23 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/2a9370ce-6fce-4b7f-a753-eaea17c65c31 ## About the Film Directed by Jane Schoenbrun, 'We’re All Going to the World’s Fair' premiered at the 2021 Sundance Film Festival. It tells the story of a young girl's journey to find herself in the digital world. The film blends horror elements with an intimate coming-of-age narrative. Protagonist Casey shares her experiences through webcam recordings as a lonely teenager. ## The World’s Fair Challenge In the film, Casey participates in the 'World’s Fair Challenge,' an alternate reality game (ARG) that speeds through horror movie tropes. The challenge includes bloodletting, mysterious videos, and a creepy mantra. Scenes like Casey jabbing herself with a pin create an unsettling experience for the viewer. ## Character Analysis Casey is a lonely teenager with no communication with her peers and a troubled relationship with her father. The film focuses not on her sexual awakening but on her quest for belonging in the digital world. This approach sets it apart from traditional coming-of-age films. Her uploaded videos reflect this search. ## The JLB Character JLB, a lonely middle-aged man, is another key character in the film. Claiming that Casey is in danger, he adds a layer of tension. Their relationship gives the viewer an uncomfortable sense of voyeurism. It’s implied that JLB is trying to manipulate the vulnerable Casey. ## Themes and Atmosphere The film thrives on uncomfortable ambiguity. It uses body horror themes in fresh and interesting ways. The loneliness of the digital world and the search for belonging are central themes. This atmosphere keeps the viewer in constant tension. ## Director’s Vision Jane Schoenbrun explores the loneliness and fears of the digital age in this film. Unlike 'I Saw the TV Glow' or 'Camp Miasma,' it offers a more intimate and introspective narrative. Schoenbrun’s approach pushes the boundaries of indie cinema. ## Release and Distribution The film is available on platforms like Criterion Channel, Kanopy, and Hoopla. After its premiere at Sundance in 2021, it gained cult status. It’s considered a significant work for indie cinema enthusiasts. ## Impact and Conclusion 'We’re All Going to the World’s Fair' successfully captures the loneliness and fears of the digital age. A young girl’s search for belonging leaves a deep impact on the viewer. Jane Schoenbrun’s vision brings a fresh perspective to indie cinema. ## Sources covering this story - https://www.theverge.com/entertainment/983177/jane-schoenbrun-were-all-going-to-the-worlds-fair-horror-movie-review — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._