Movie Review: Shook (2021)
Synopsis:
"Shook" is a clever horror-thriller that expertly interlaces contemporary social media dynamics with traditional slasher tropes. The film centres on Mia (played by Daisye Tutor), a young woman and a budding social media influencer, who must confront an insidious and looming threat when a mysterious stalker begins targeting her friends through an app called "Shook". As the chilling events unfold, Mia finds herself plunged into a psychological game of cat-and-mouse, where every facet of her life is put under the spotlight. The narrative deftly explores themes of identity, the impact of digital footprints, and the fragility of online personas.
Mia’s closest confidants start receiving ominous messages, testing the bonds of friendship and trust as paranoia mounts. With time running out and her friends disappearing one by one, Mia must decipher who is really behind the torment, and, more crucially, how her online presence may have played a role in the unfolding horror. The film circumspectly critiques the consequences of social media obsession while offering a frenetic ride through suspenseful twists and gruesome moments.
As Mia races against the ticking clock, she learns that surviving in a world obsessed with likes and followers may be far more dangerous than the horrors that await offline.
List of Actors and Their Characters:
- Daisye Tutor as Mia
- Emily Goss as Sam
- Amanda Grace Benfield as the Stalker (voice)
- Tessa Munro as Jess
- Gabrielle Aplin as herself (cameo)
Conclusion:
"Shook" turns the ever-present fear of online vulnerabilities into a thrilling narrative that captivates audiences. Daisye Tutor’s performance as Mia is commendable, deftly evoking both determination and vulnerability as her character grapples with threats from multiple angles—both within her circle and from the digital world. The supporting cast adds depth and nuance, enriching the story with each character’s unique relationship to social media.
The film’s cinematography effectively enhances the sense of dread, with clever compositions that reflect Mia’s increasingly fractured psyche. The score complements the narrative’s tension, while the dialogue remains sharp and relevant, drawing parallels between virtual engagement and real-world consequences.
However, while "Shook" navigates familiar tropes, it distinguishes itself through its relevant commentary on social interactions in the digital age. The film may not break new ground in horror, but it provides a pertinent lens, ensuring it resonates with younger audiences intimately acquainted with the perils of social media.
On the whole, "Shook" is a thrilling, albeit familiar, exploration of the intersection of technology and horror. It smartly critiques the anxiety of an online-centric existence while delivering enough chills and thrills to satisfy genre enthusiasts.
Score: 7.5/10
