What would you do to grab onto the coattails of a rising star?
That’s the question that “Lurker” answers. Matthew (Theodore Pellerin) works in a Los Angeles boutique where celebrities occasionally shop.
Oliver (Archie Madekwe, who also appeared in “Saltburn,” which has similar themes) is an up-and-coming musician – Matthew recognizes him the second he steps into the shop. Mathew goes to great lengths to get some positive attention from Oliver, and it works: Suddenly, a delighted Matthew finds himself back stage at Oliver’s next performance.
Screenwriter/director Alex Russell must have known people like Oliver and Matthew. I know I have, and I’m betting you have, too.
The fragile chemistry that forms between the two, and the lengths to which Matthew goes to be included in Oliver’s entourage, are so realistic it’s almost like watching a documentary because of the authentic dialogue and the way Russell gets up close to his stars and what they say in public and private to maintain their fame and what people will say to maintain their fragile connection to the star and the star’s inner circle.
Who is being mocked, who earns adulation, and who is being shunned from that entourage is as changeable as Oliver’s moods. Watch how desperately Matthew and the others work to keep their footing with Oliver – not only to stay in his good graces, but to stay within eyesight and earshot, and to contribute whatever they can to be near him and thereby have their own popularity.
I love movies like this, that reflect up-to-the-second the times in which they are made. This film could not have existed 30 years ago, because the idea of influencers and online celebrities wasn’t as common. It was shot on 16-millimeter film, so it has a kind of grainy look, as though you’re watching it on your phone (I would recommend doing exactly that to add to the vibe.)
It depicts the content you can and do watch on your phone.
Rated; R for foul language and violence.
Running time: One hour and 40 minutes.
Streaming on prime video,, MUBI, HBO MAX, Hulu and other platforms.
Watch the trailer here.
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