Alex Russell’s work explores niche L.A. culture in ‘Lurker’
By Nalani Olgawa
If you felt like this summer’s box office was a bit of a flop, you’re not alone. “Lilo and Stitch” and “Superman” made impressive splashes but compared to the reign of last year’s “Inside Out 2” and the cultural rift that “Barbenheimer” caused in 2023, this summer has been relatively flat. That’s why I’m highlighting the ever-clever L.A.-based indie film Lurker this month.
ARCHIE MADEKWE as “Oliver” and Théodore Pellerin as “Matthew” in Alex Russell’s Lurker. Courtesy of MUBI
What’s the difference between love and obsession? That question drives Alex Russell’s biting debut film, “Lurker” which follows Matthew (Théodore Pellerin), a wiry retail worker who elbows his way into a rising pop star’s inner circle. The distinction between love and obsession may seem obvious, but for an up-and-coming musician constantly getting smoke blown up their bum, it’s a tantalizing dichotomy. Depending on your generation, picture a clout-drunk “All About Eve” or “Nightcrawler” with better clothes and scene-y parties.
Ollie, the artist and god of this world, can’t help but be a doe-eyed, naive celebrity, obsessed with authenticity and validation. He prefers a chosen family over his biological one and brings Matthew into his world after one “meaningful” conversation. But, as with any friend group, there is an unspoken hierarchy among its members, and Matthew is at the bottom; barely an afterthought. He cleans up after the boys, takes out the trash, does their laundry, and is excluded from plans. The average person would eventually give up in humiliation. But not Matthew. He begins to manipulate, sabotage, and weasel his way to the top. Initially, he seems like the typical fanboy cherishing his five minutes of fame, until you realize he craves something deeper—something permanent. He is an immovable object in a world where he does not belong. Above all else, he is resilient. In a slightly deranged way, his persistence is almost inspiring—some messed-up version of the American Dream.
I will say: some of the advertising is misleading. This film is laugh-out-loud hilarious, much of that thanks to Zack Fox’s scene-stealing charisma. Pellerin’s Matthew, is a beautifully twisted genius. He, paired with Russell’s tight direction, infuses obscene amounts of tension into what should feel like lackadaisical environments. Pellerin’s performance is my personal favorite of the year thus far.
Russell may be best known for his writing credits on such iconic shows as “The Bear” and “Beef,” but it’s clear he’s just getting started as a filmmaker. His work jabs you in the ribs—a surprising breath of fresh air people will keep coming back for.
Lurker captures a subculture that has seldom been explored with such detail and care. Any fans of the L.A. alternative music scene, particularly those under the age of 40, will no doubt have an appreciation for the film (and maybe even speculate about its real-life inspirations).
Parents, this is not a film for children. It’s rated R. However, if you’d like to understand a microcosm of L.A. culture that your kids may have already been exposed to, lurk away.
Category: Entertainment
