Masked Menace, Internet Incels Leap Off Screen

Read Time:3 Minute, 52 Second

MOVIE REVIEW
Followers
–

Genre: Horror
Year Released: 2024
Runtime: 1h 13m
Director(s): James Rich
Writer(s): James Rich
Cast: Revell Carpenter, Annika Foster, Michael Bonini, James Rich, Molly Leach, Jackson Jones, Walker Edelman, Gigi James, Chris Scarciotta, Joe Hulser, Cole Cuomo, Zac Hersh, Sean Regan
Where To Watch: streams on March 12, 2024, exclusively on ScreamBox

RAVING REVIEW: James Rich's FOLLOWERS explores the confluence of digital dangers and palpable fear headfirst. In this sequel to 2022’s FOLLOWER, our heroes confront a threat from a dark web cult of incels bent on revenge. The journey balances the tightrope between online personas and the vulnerability of flesh and blood, even as it occasionally stumbles over some predictable aspects.

FOLLOWERS follows the script on standard terror fare and injects a modern vibe into the old-school thriller formula. With Revell Carpenter, Gigi James, Annika Foster, and Molly Leach leading, our protagonists navigate a terror tale that mirrors the potential nightmares lurking within anyone's social media feed. Rich proves adept behind the camera, blending these 21st-century fears with a gripping narrative arc that keeps viewers engaged.

The film sometimes telegraphs its punches, hinting at developments long before they unfold. Nevertheless, FOLLOWERS manages to pull itself back up for a gripping finale, locking viewers in for the resolution of its digital mayhem. The film’s ending leaves as many questions as answers and, ultimately, may be one of the most polarizing aspects of the film.

Among the film's highlights is its exploration of the self-victimization culture festering in certain corners of the internet. FOLLOWERS doesn't just touch on this issue; it probes it, inviting audiences to ponder the impact of such mindsets long after the house lights come up. Although I wish the film would have gone all in one way or the other in the critique of incels.

The visual storytelling in FOLLOWERS is notably enhanced by the distinctive masks the antagonists wear, amplifying the film's eerie atmosphere. These masks are more than mere costume pieces; they symbolize the anonymity that emboldens the darkest online behaviors, bringing an up-close and personal menace to the fore.

Traversing this dimly lit path reveals some flaws. The ending splits audiences, with some finding it lacks the punch needed to elevate the overall impact. FOLLOWERS etches its place in the horror genre by merging classic home invasion fears with the burgeoning dread of digital life gone awry. This mix speaks volumes to our contemporary existence, blurring the lines between virtual threats and their tangible consequences.

The film resonates with anxieties, offering a narrative that provides a reflective view of society. It delves into the dichotomy between our digital facades and our actual vulnerabilities, making it relevant for today's internet-engrossed audience.

While FOLLOWERS has its missteps, it offers a robust genre piece. It frightens and fascinates, showcasing the potential for horror to evolve with our changing world. As it taps into undercurrents of fear in our digital age, FOLLOWERS serves as a reminder of the genre's capacity to adapt, entertain, and provoke thought.

FOLLOWERS is a journey through the intersections of technology and terror, woven with deft storytelling and dynamic performances. It may tread familiar ground but does so with a fresh and provocative twist, offering an engaging and reflective viewing experience. For those looking past its slight blemishes, FOLLOWERS reveals the darkness lurking behind familiar screens, proving that the terrifying horrors are sometimes only a click away.

@screamboxtv

For more reviews, please visit https://linktr.ee/overlyhonestmr.

You can follow me on Letterboxd, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. You can also find my social media accounts on most platforms by searching Overly Honest Movie Reviews.

I’m always happy to hear from my readers; please say hi or send me any questions about movies.

[photo courtesy of SCREAMBOX TV, SMALLERTOWN PRODUCTIONS, CINEVERSE ENTERTAINMENT]

DISCLAIMER:
At Overly Honest Movie Reviews, we value honesty and transparency. Occasionally, we receive free items for review, including DVDs, Blu-rays, CDs, Vinyl, Books, etc. We assure you that these arrangements do not influence our reviews, as we are committed to providing unbiased and sincere evaluations. We aim to help you make informed entertainment choices, regardless of our relationship with distributors or producers.

Amazon Affiliate Links:
Additionally, this site contains Amazon affiliate links. If you purchase through these links, we may receive a commission. This affiliate arrangement does not affect our commitment to honest reviews and helps support our site. We appreciate your trust and support in navigating these links.