"Ick" is a gripping sci-fi drama that centers on Hank, a high school science teacher portrayed by Brandon Routh, whose life takes an unexpected turn upon discovering he may have a teenage daughter named Grace, played by Malina Weissman. The quiet small town they reside in becomes the epicenter of chaos as a terrifying alien anomaly begins to invade, testing the bonds within their community and challenging Hank's understanding of his past and present.
At its core, "Ick" delves deep into themes of identity, family, and the unknown. Hank's journey is not only about confronting extraterrestrial threats but also about reconciling with his past, embracing newfound responsibilities, and understanding the complexities of human relationships. The alien invasion serves as a metaphor for personal and societal upheavals, compelling characters to confront fears and prejudices while seeking unity and resilience.
Upon its release, "Ick" resonated with audiences for its blend of personal drama and science fiction, carving a unique niche in pop culture. Critics praised the compelling performances of Routh and Weissman, the show's suspenseful storytelling, and its thoughtful exploration of human emotions against a backdrop of otherworldly threats. The series sparked discussions about the intersection of family dynamics and extraordinary circumstances, solidifying its place as a memorable entry in contemporary sci-fi television.
Critics' Reviews
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The opening montage plays like a music video Kahn might have directed for a band like All-American Rejects as we meet high school superstar Hank (Brandon Routh) in the prime of his life. He is King of his smalltown high school, the handsome young man who not only gets the touchdown but dates the most popular girl in town in Staci (Mena Suvari, doing a de-aged “Teenage Dirtbag” riff), who you just know has that name so Kahn can get more satisfaction out of using a certain Fountains of Wayne song. When an injury derails his career, Hank loses Staci and his social clout, ending up teaching at the high school he once ruled many years later. Staci has a daughter with another man, and that daughter lands in Hank’s science class in the form of Grace (a solid Malina Weissman), a teenager who knows she’s gotta get out of this weird town but she’s at least going to enjoy her youth while she can.
Main Cast of Ick
Brandon Routh
Hank
Fans of Brandon Routh will enjoy his role in the movie 'Ick' as it offers a fresh take compared to his most iconic performance as Superman in 'Man of Steel' and the TV series '
Arrow.' In 'Ick,' Routh plays a quirky, down-to-earth character that showcases his versatility beyond the superhero genre. Unlike the stoic and heroic Clark Kent, his role in 'Ick' combines humor and vulnerability, allowing fans to see a different side of his acting skills. An interesting detail about his casting is that Routh was drawn to the project because it challenged him to embrace a more comedic and self-deprecating role, which was a refreshing change from his usual dramatic parts.
Mena Suvari
Staci
In the movie 'Ick', Mena Suvari takes on a role that diverges from her more widely recognized performances in films like '
American Beauty' and '
American Pie'. While those earlier roles often highlighted her as a youthful, vibrant presence, 'Ick' presents her in a more complex, nuanced character that allows for deeper emotional exploration. This performance stands out as it showcases Suvari's range and willingness to embrace unconventional narratives, adding depth to her career portfolio by stepping into indie or lesser-known film projects that challenge her established screen persona.
Mariann Gavelo
Sofia Díaz
Fans of Mariann Gavelo will appreciate their role in the movie 'Ick' for the way it showcases a fresh and nuanced side of their acting range. Unlike their most iconic performances, which often highlight their commanding presence in dramatic roles, 'Ick' allows Gavelo to explore a more quirky and comedic character, offering a delightful contrast. An interesting detail about their role in 'Ick' is that Gavelo improvised a pivotal scene, which ended up being so impactful that the director decided to keep it in the final cut, adding an authentic and spontaneous energy to the film.
Malina Weissman
Grace
Crew of Ick
Full backstage crew list →