Narrative Evolves, Stays Fresh, Becomes Something More

Read Time:3 Minute, 24 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Under the Influencer
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Genre: Comedy, Drama
Year Released: 2023
Runtime: 1h 36m
Director(s): Alex Haughey
Writer(s): Alex Haughey
Cast: Taylor Joree Scorse, Spencer Vaughn Kelly, Chandler Young, Zach Paul Brown, Ava Westcott
Where To Watch: world premiere August 21, 2023, at the 2023 Cinequest Film Festival; more information available here www.cinequest.org

RAVING REVIEW: Dive headfirst into the digital wonderland with UNDER THE INFLUENCER. This is not just another flick about the glitz and glamor of online stardom; it's an insightful lens into its mazes and alleyways. And at the heart of this landscape? The vibrant Tori brought to life in a dual performance that has Taylor Joree Scorse shining brighter than any viral post. So despite my displeasure with the title, I would still be considered an “influencer” (small time, but still) because of my social media presence. Initially watching this, I thought I knew what I was getting; thankfully, this was a tale of two halves, and I loved it after letting it sink in.

Director Alex Haughey's vision doesn't corner influencers into stereotypes. Instead, he unravels their worlds, exploring their challenges, dreams, and, sometimes, nightmares. So much of the film connects back to a nostalgic flashback that juxtaposes Tori’s beginnings with the towering digital icon she morphs into.

The brilliance of Taylor Scorse's portrayal is hard to overlook. She effortlessly portrays the digital icon while revealing the soul beneath, yearning for authentic connections in a world ruled by likes and comments. Tori’s journey is fraught with challenges, especially when her peers, driven by envy and ambition, set up hurdles in her path.

UNDER THE INFLUENCER does more than just narrate a story; it evolves. As we follow Tori's journey from being an online sensation to the world of a budding music career, Haughey showcases his flair for storytelling that adapts and grows. His innovative touch keeps the narrative from ever feeling stagnant or predictable. The twist midway through the film is shocking; I wasn’t expecting it and was initially confused, but once it dawned on me what it was, all the meaning became clear. This moment grabs the audience, reminding us of the movies' magic and their potential to captivate and inspire.

The film occasionally tiptoes into excess, becoming a tad too vivid in its portrayal. I feel like it was intentional, and I understand the reasoning behind it, mirroring the world of internet fame often, which often blurs the lines between the real and the exaggerated.

UNDER THE INFLUENCER is an odyssey, beckoning everyone, whether you're the one who posts every thought, the passive observer, or someone who still asks, "How do I post this?" This tale of the digital realm, painted by Haughey and brought to life by Scorse and the rest of the cast and crew., invites you to a cinematic experience that reflects, resonates, and even shares the essence of our online avatars.

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[photo courtesy of SIKANDER CINEMA]

MY SAG-AFTRA/WGA STRIKE STATEMENT:
As an advocate for creators, actors, and writers, I firmly stand with SAG-AFTRA and the WGA in their current strike. The entertainment industry is built on these individuals' extraordinary talents, and their contributions must be appropriately recognized and rewarded. They deserve fair compensation, sensible work hours, and respect for their creative rights. I believe in the power of unity and collective action, and I'm steadfast in my support for their fight for better working conditions and fair remuneration. Together, we can shape a more equitable future in the entertainment world.

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