"You need not engage in such bewildering antics to keep our company," resonates the sentiment in the spellbinding first official trailer for 'Lurker,' unveiled by Mubi with a flourish. This clandestine thriller, which caused quite a stir at the prestigious 2025 Sundance Film Festival earlier this year and garnered a spot on my 'Best of the Fest' roster, marks the auspicious feature directorial debut of writer-director Alex Russell. Russell has already etched his name in the industry by penning episodes for hit series such as 'Beef,' 'The Bear,' and 'Dave.' This mesmerizing, paranoia-induced narrative of parasocial entanglements is poised to entrance US audiences in theaters this very month, promising an immersive cinematic experience like no other.
Featuring an ensemble cast comprising Théodore Pellerin, Archie Madekwe, Zack Fox, Havana Rose Liu, Wale Onayemi, Daniel Zolghadri, and Sunny Suljic, "Lurker" delves deep into the mind of an obscure nobody yearning for fame, toiling away in menial duties at a clothing boutique. This aspiring individual's life takes an unexpected turn when he strikes up an unlikely friendship with a celebrated musician of colossal fame. Desperate to remain ensconced in the celebrity's orbit and leverage his newfound connection to elevate his own status, he is prepared to embark on any journey, however extreme—ANY lengths imaginable!—to nurture and sustain this life-altering bond.
Dubbed "a screw-tightening psychological thriller tailored for our times," this cat-and-mouse chase bridges online obsession with stark reality, fueled by stellar performances that are sure to make stars of its cast. With a piercing gaze into contemporary culture and an enchanting score by Kenny Beats, 'Lurker' offers an exhilarating perspective on the music industry, the blurred boundaries between friends and fans, and the universal quest for validation. I am a fervent admirer of this magnificent film, which serves as a mirror to society today, posing a poignant question: How many of YOU are equally possessed by parasocial mania as this character?
In 'Lurker,' Matthew (Théodore Pellerin), a twenty-something retail clerk and loner working at a Los Angeles clothing store, crosses paths with ascending pop star Oliver (Archie Madekwe). Seeing an opportunity to wedge his way into the elite circle, Matthew seizes it. But maintaining his foothold proves challenging amidst Oliver's entourage (Havana Rose Liu, Zack Fox, Daniel Zolghadri, Sunny Suljic), all vying for attention. As their bond grows tense and mainstream fame beckons, access and proximity turn into matters of life and death.
Written and directed by American filmmaker Alex Russell, 'Lurker' marks his debut in the feature director's chair. He has also penned series such as "Dave," "Beef," and episodes of "The Bear." Produced by Alex Orlovsky, Duncan Montgomery, Galen Core, Charlie McDowell, Jack Selby, Marc Marrie, Francesco Melzi d’Eril, Olmo Schnabel, and Archie Madekwe, the film premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival. Mubi will introduce Russell's 'Lurker' to select US theaters beginning August 22nd, 2025. Does it intrigue you?
