Upstream Color is a 2013 experimental science-fiction film written, directed, produced, and edited by Shane Carruth. The film stars Amy Seimetz and Carruth himself. It follows the story of a man and a woman who are both drawn into the life cycle of an ageless organism, with their identities becoming intertwined as they struggle to find meaning in their shattered lives.
The film begins with Kris (Seimetz), a young woman who is abducted by a thief and implanted with a worm-like creature. The worm-like organism produces a psychoactive substance that causes Kris to lose her sense of self and become highly suggestible. The thief then uses this state to steal her money and possessions while making her believe that the things she is doing are of her own will.
After this traumatizing experience, Kris struggles to piece her life back together and becomes involved with Jeff (Carruth), a man who is also struggling with the aftermath of a traumatic experience. They soon discover that they are both connected to the same entity, which has the power to control and manipulate their lives.
As the film progresses, Kris and Jeff attempt to regain control of their lives and find a way to break free from the influence of the organism. The narrative is fragmented and non-linear, with dreamlike sequences and surrealist imagery that adds to the film's mysterious and unsettling tone.
Upstream Color is a highly experimental and abstract film that explores themes of identity, memory, and the human condition. It received critical acclaim upon its release and has been compared to the work of avant-garde filmmakers such as David Lynch and Terrence Malick.