Kurtis David Harder’s Influencers (2025) dives deep into the chaos of social media, where lives can be shattered with a single post. This sequel expands on the unsettling narrative of its predecessor, focusing on various content creators who are vulnerable to the dark side of online fame.
Set a year after the first film, Influencers kicks off with a gripping prologue: a woman in white slits her throat by her pool, drawing viewers in. This intense moment highlights the film’s attention to detail, from the blood’s bright color to the raw atmosphere. Though longer than its predecessor, it doesn’t drag.
Cassandra Naud reprises her role as Catherine Weaver, or CW, the manipulative villain we love to hate. She begins in the south of France, seemingly happy with a new lover. But CW’s dark nature quickly resurfaces, proving she’s still a master of deception.
Georgina Campbell shines as Charlotte, a loud British influencer who unwittingly clashes with CW. The film captures stunning real-life locations like Bali, reminding audiences that breathtaking backdrops add depth to storytelling. Harder’s cinematography emphasizes every detail, avoiding the haze of artificial backgrounds often seen in modern films.
Madison, played by Emily Tennant, has become a recluse after facing online harassment. Her story showcases the real consequences of internet bullying, making her arc relatable. During a podcast where her pain is trivialized, viewers witness her despair and determination to confront CW. It’s a poignant reminder of how toxic online environments can be.
The film also introduces Jacob, a male influencer whose antics mirror real-life problematic figures online. He’s a caricature of toxic masculinity, highlighting the absurdity of fame in the influencer age. His humor and madness create a vibrant contrast to CW’s cold calculations.
Harder skillfully weaves multiple plots together while delving into CW’s backstory, including her unexpected computer science degree, revealing more layers to her character. This sequel escalates the horror, with elaborate kills and a rising body count, all while retaining the intrigue around CW’s character.
As a commentary on digital fame and its consequences, Influencers feels relevant and timely. It effectively critiques aspects of our social media-driven lives, making us reflect on our own interactions online.
Influencers releases on December 12, 2025, on Shudder. For a more in-depth look at the issues presented in the film, consider exploring the impact of social media on mental health, with studies showing a direct correlation between online harassment and increased anxiety levels in young adults (source: Pew Research Center).
In today’s world, understanding these dynamics becomes essential. The film not only entertains but also serves as a cautionary tale of the price of online fame.
