Making connections in the music industry is explored in a deeply immersive way in Lurker. This film comes from the mind of director writer, producer, and director Alex Russell (producer of The Bear and Beef). A film where obsession hits a deadly path that is hard to follow but just keeps going. An odyssey of fame and popularity that seeks growth within the depths of the film’s writing and characterizations. The story is a a stunning portrait of favoritism that is mind-boggling with competition. The music industry creates an environment in Lurker where the competition and envy feel surreal. 

The plot of the film focuses on a boy named Matthew, played by Theodore Pellerin. Matthew is a regular retail store employee in California who has a solitary life yet fancies his creative side when he is able. His life changes instantly when he becomes part of a crew for an artist that is on his way to fame. That artist is Oliver, played by Archie Madekwe. Matthew finds himself in the mix while helping to shoot footage and hanging out withOliver’s cool gang. However, plateaus are encountered because fame becomes everything for both Matthew and Oliver. At the same time, the popularity Matthew seeks is what he utilizes to his advantage. This leads to turmoil that becomes life-threatening.

Russell’s directing features layers of competition that keep the portrait of trial-and-error in focus during Lurker. I thought a lot about how the series The Bear showcases competitive moments in the kitchen with culinary stuff. The difference is the industry. Every small measure seems to be taken extra seriously in the music industry. Russell’s artistic eye creates a silent obsession for Matthew that grows dangerously in Lurker.

The film feels mentally disturbing. It is not very violent, but it captures the stressors through its characterizations of disconnect. When Matthew starts feeling unwanted within the team, thingsspiral. Russell’s cinematography fuels the emotion sparked byan outsider wanting more of the credit success in the music industry. The common ground in this film are the conflicts andthe dynamics required to keep fame and popularity on the rise.

What audiences will feel is the frustration between Matthew and Oliver. Matthew wants to feel cool and connected. Oliver wants to keep his fame on the horizon. Deep down the mental struggles and stressors of human values are at the core. Fame and agreements are the central flaws, but Matthew’s loneliness fuels the fire. The high life that Matthew never anticipated to have a mess with his choices. Matthew mixed feelings about his reputation because in his mind the generosity coming towards him feels fake.

With music, friends, and connections, desperation is at the center of Lurker. Matthew’s choices of Matthew appear to be irreparable, but at the same time his creative value is at the core of his choices. The film has a vivid and compelling vibe. Lurker is an intriguing portrait of how reality can be seen through the eyes of an artist. Three-and-a-half out of four stars.