A Thrilling Exploration of Parasocial Relationships
Lurker, the psychological thriller directed by Alex Russell, delves into the complexities of parasocial relationships, capturing the essence of fandom in a gripping narrative. Starring Archie Madekwe and Théodore Pellerin, the film follows the story of Matty, portrayed by Pellerin, a mild-mannered retail worker who is an obsessive superfan of indie musician Oliver, played by Madekwe.
From Fan to Friend
The plot unfolds when Matty unexpectedly engages in conversation with Oliver at the shop where he works. Initially pretending not to recognize Oliver, Matty soon finds himself invited to the artist’s concert. The encounter leads him backstage, where he meets Oliver’s entourage, including Swett (Zach Fox), Bowen (Wale Onayemi), and Shai (Havana Rose Liu). As Matty and Oliver’s lives become intertwined, Oliver unwittingly finds himself drawn into a dangerous game.
A Tense Viewing Experience
Russell, an ex-music journalist with credits on shows like Beef and The Bear, skillfully crafts a narrative that explores the “what-if” scenarios many fans dream about. What if you met your idol? What if you became friends? The film is filled with painfully cringeworthy moments as Matty desperately tries to ingratiate himself with Oliver and his team. Through Matty’s increasingly alarming actions, Russell pushes these questions to their limits.
Brilliant Performances
The film boasts strong performances from both Madekwe and Pellerin. Madekwe’s portrayal of Oliver balances moments of casual cruelty with genuine warmth, creating a character who is both relatable and flawed. Meanwhile, Pellerin captures Matty’s inner turmoil, showcasing the character’s insecurities. He embodies a Jekyll and Hyde persona, revealing the complexities of a fan seeking validation.
Intentional Discomfort
When I meet Alex, Archie, and Théodore at a chic Soho hotel, their jet-lag is evident, but so is their enthusiasm for the project. Alex acknowledges the film’s ability to evoke discomfort. “That discomfort that everyone feels watching this was intentional. I did want to make people feel sick to a degree,” he explains. His goal was to immerse the audience in Matty’s perspective, where every social interaction carries immense weight.
The Balance of Cruelty and Humanity
The dynamic between Oliver’s cruelty and Matty’s humanity is a focal point in their performances. Madekwe reflects on Oliver’s motivations, emphasizing that his actions stem from a need for validation and control. “When you’re not the biggest artist in the world… your ecosystem is just the 10 people that are running around you,” he notes. This need can lead to a false sense of intimacy that ultimately feels cruel.
Pellerin adds depth to Matty’s character, sometimes making him seem less than human as he navigates acceptance. The first half of the film depicts Matty’s struggle to learn how to fit in, emphasizing his desire for friendship and meaning in life.
Insights into Character Dynamics
The film’s cast also highlights the gender dynamics within the entourage. With Shai as the sole female member, she serves as an essential counterpoint to the toxic masculinity displayed among the boys. As the story unfolds, the complexities of their relationships are brought to light, adding another layer to the film’s exploration of fame and friendship.
Source inspired by international fashion publications. Adapted & edited for Maverick.
We respect copyrights. Articles on this site are submitted and written by external contributors. If you believe any content infringes your rights, please contact our team at Info@maverick-magazine.co.il.
ref:78dc86ac-b253-4b2b-a068-9a99f1bf78f6
