Under the Influencer

I almost didn't watch this movie. There are only 10 reviews and many of those are glowing "10" reviews that don't say much, I suspect from the filmmakers and their friends, just to pump up the IMDb rating. However there are a couple of legitimate user reviews, plus external reviews, which say it is an entertaining and worthwhile movie.

And it is, very much so. Tori is a successful influencer, she started when she was 15 and was a big hit, especially with the teenage girls. Financially successful enough to hire a personal assistant and a producer for her videos. Now, ten years later and 25, her content is barely relevant. She has failed to change with the times. Her following is dwindling, as is her income.

This is a real issue in the real world, over the past few years I have watched people on my topics of interest (e.g. Whiskey reviews) start out as a hobby, realize there is money to be made, quit their day jobs, then feel the pressure to get more frequent content posted so they can get more clicks so they can generate more revenue. Many of them fail and give up.

So this movie is about the transition Tori must make, not only to keep herself relevant but also to grow as a person. And one way she does this is to expand her interest in song writing and singing.

No, this is not a "10" movie, if you compare it to other fine movies, but it is a good and entertaining movie with a relevance to today's world where so many people want to become "influencers" and make their living that way.

At home on DVD from my public library.

Taylor was fantastic, energetic, sympathetic, romantic and lovable. The theme is timely and the story unique and multifaceted. Kept my attention throughout. The pace of the film changed in ways that fit with the storyline and didn't seem forced. Sometimes a comedy, sometimes tragic, sometimes romantic and ultimately redemptive. Characters are believable, acting is wonderful. Like a good book, I wish I'd be able to keep track of the characters in the future, it's that good. Hoping for a sequel. Been wondering when it will be in more venues, and in general release. Left feeling fulfilled and satisfied. Can't wait to see it again.

Under The Influencer is one of the most optimistic films I've ever seen! You get a taste of what it's like behind the scenes in a social media influencer's life, including all the struggles and accomplishments, too. Not everything turns out as planned and life gets in the way, which makes for a great film for those on a journey to finding themself.

We follow Tori (Taylor Scorse) as her YouTube account following begins slowly plummeting but that's all she eats, sleeps, and breathes. During this time she is not only desperately trying to find ways to fix it, but is also trying to heal from a messy Internet break up . Throughout this time Tori is coming to terms with the fact that her personal life and her social media life might need to cross paths, but she is not comfortable with making that happen. She enjoys learning new things about herself but struggles to grasp the fact that her content is taking over her life, and not in a good way. Tori hits complete rock bottom, and that's when she starts to make a breakthrough. She lets go of some people and has new experiences with others that affect her for the better. As for locations, from the sunsets to the mansions the settings were great. The acting was pretty spot on as well and some of the characters make their mark when it comes to learning the life lessons. Overall this film is great and watching it unravel will definitely prompt emotions in audiences.

Under The Influencer is relatable and shows realistic challenges for not just influencers but all people, too. When you see what the true meaning behind this film is it really touches the heart. Tori starts to see how social media is crushing the real her behind the mask she puts on. And yet she is not completely alone, as her best friend and employee Sara (Chandler Young) helps her through her journey of showing who she really is. Tori never really stays low when she gets knocked down; she just keeps learning and doing what's best for her.

The film's message is to not be afraid to show the world the real you. You never know what is going to happen or change in your life. So learn from the mistakes you make to improve yourself.

I give Under the Influencer 4 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. Under The Influencer is available now on VOD! By SaniyaRain F., KIDS FIRST!

I got to see a screening of this at a film festival and absolutely loved it. It's funny, heart warming, and poignant. It's an amazing performance from Taylor Scorse. She gave so much humanity to influencers, who I more often that not find myself rolling my eyes at their antics. Speaking of which, Ava Westcott couldn't have been more perfectly cast. The writing in this movie was fantastic - and I was truly blown away to find that it wasn't female written - kudos to Alex Haughey for getting it right!

I feel that comedies are the most difficult to ground, and Under the Influencer did a great job of doing it. You won't be disappointed!!

A new angle into the social media narrative and celebrity culture. Digs deeper than you'd expect from the premise. The lead girl holds the whole thing together. Her performance is hilarious, heartfelt, and human. She showed so many different sides of her character, who takes a real turn toward the end of the film.

I really enjoyed the music throughout. Excited to hear more from these creators.

Lots of experimental camera work and coloring which is intentional but at times distracting from the performances. Ultimately cathartic. Watch the credits for Becca's Bop.

Keeping my eyes peeled for Taylor Scorse 👀