Influencer: A Thriller That Surprisingly Humanises Social Media Stars
In a refreshing twist for the horror-thriller genre, the film Influencer accomplishes what many might consider impossible: it makes audiences feel genuine sympathy for social media influencers. This clever production, now available on streaming platforms, turns the typical narrative about digital fame on its head while delivering sharp social commentary.
A Modern Tom Ripley for the Instagram Era
The film introduces us to Cassandra Naud's compelling performance as CW, a character being described as a contemporary Tom Ripley for the Instagram generation. Rather than simply presenting another villainous figure, the film explores the complex dynamics of digital identity theft in the age of social media dominance. CW's method involves systematically targeting influencers, assuming their digital lives, and continuing their online presence through sophisticated technological manipulation.
Director Kurtis David Harder takes what could have been a straightforward premise – a charismatic killer targeting social media personalities – and transforms it into something far more nuanced and intellectually engaging. The film manages to be both entertaining and thought-provoking, achieving this with modest production resources and standout performances that elevate the material beyond expectations.
The Lonely Reality Behind the Perfect Feed
The story begins with Madison, portrayed by Emily Tennant, an influencer on what appears to be a glamorous working holiday in Thailand. The film immediately establishes the stark contrast between her carefully curated online persona and the lonely reality of her existence. While posting bubbly content about authentic travel experiences, we see her eating alone in her hotel room, disconnected from genuine human interaction and moping over her absent manager-boyfriend Ryan.
This establishment of Madison's hollow existence serves as crucial groundwork for the film's central thesis about the emptiness that can lurk behind seemingly perfect digital lives. When CW enters the picture as a confident, seasoned traveler who encourages Madison to disconnect from her phone and actually experience her surroundings, the stage is set for a chilling transformation.
Cassandra Naud's Breakout Performance
What truly makes Influencer work is Cassandra Naud's magnetic performance as CW. The film wisely avoids providing extensive backstory for her character, allowing her actions to speak for themselves and maintaining an air of mystery that makes her more compelling. Naud brings a chilling authenticity to the role, particularly in moments where CW confronts her victims about the superficial nature of their digital existences.
One particularly effective scene involves CW's subtle reaction when Ryan suggests she should become an influencer herself, calling her "unique." Naud's dead-eyed silence in this moment speaks volumes about how many times she's heard similar compliments that carry unspoken judgments. The incorporation of Naud's facial birthmark into the character's identity adds another layer of thoughtful detail to the performance.
Beyond the Original: A Successful Sequel
The film's success has spawned a sequel titled Influencers, which continues CW's story as she targets new types of digital personalities in Bali. While the original film managed to generate empathy for traditional influencers, the sequel takes on different corners of internet culture with equally sharp observations. Both films are currently available for streaming through various platforms, offering viewers a double feature of social media commentary wrapped in thriller packaging.
What makes Influencer particularly noteworthy is how it balances entertainment value with genuine insight into contemporary digital culture. The film doesn't simply condemn social media personalities but instead explores the complex human realities behind the curated feeds, making it a surprisingly empathetic addition to the thriller genre that will resonate with anyone who has ever questioned the authenticity of online life.
