Lurker is a film that sits somewhere between good and forgettable. Directed by Alex Russell, it tells the story of a young retail worker who slowly infiltrates the world of a rising music star. The film’s premise is interesting, a modern look at fame, obsession, and how far people will go to feel seen. It starts with promise, setting up a moody atmosphere that captures the uneasy mix of admiration and envy in the age of influencers.
There are moments where Lurker really works. The performances, especially from Théodore Pellerin, feel genuine and grounded. The world of the music scene, the rehearsals, parties, social media attention feels authentic without being exaggerated. The film also benefits from a clean runtime, keeping things tight and focused.
But for all its strengths, Lurker struggles to dig deep enough. The story leans on familiar ideas about the obsessed fan and the price of fame, but it rarely surprises. We never truly understand what drives the main character or what he’s looking for beyond surface curiosity. The suspense fades in and out and some side plots feel unfinished. There’s potential for a stronger emotional or psychological impact, but the film never quite gets there.
In the end, Lurker is not a bad film, it’s just not a memorable one. It’s stylish, timely, and watchable, but also safe. It’s the kind of film that you finish and think “that was fine” before moving on to the next thing. It’s worth a look, but it doesn’t linger long after the credits roll.