Death of a Vlogger

Death of a Vlogger, a 2019 film directed by Graham Hughes, is an innovative blend of several film sub-genres: horror, mockumentary, and found footage. As the title suggests, it centers on the experiences of an online influencer whose life spirals out of control after inadvertently capturing paranormal activity in a video. The film stars Graham Hughes himself, along with a compelling cast that includes Annabel Logan and Paddy Kondracki.

Graham Hughes takes on the role of the vlogger, Graham, a somewhat jaded internet personality who has been floundering in obscurity. Like many vloggers, he is in the relentless pursuit of views and viral fame that criterial part of the internet. Graham's content is largely unremarkable, until, during a commonplace live stream, he receives an uninvited spectral visitor. His followers are quick to brand the incident as a 'ghost sighting', and this causes Graham's online presence to explode overnight. Yet, it sets the stage for more than he bargained for, and the ostensibly amusing and harmless event spirals into a harrowing experience.

Following the incident, Graham experiences a series of unnerving encounters and paranormal occurrences in his flat. Armed with his video camera and the help of his friends Erin (Annabel Logan) and Steve (Paddy Kondracki), he decides to dig deeper into what's happening. The trio, recognizing the opportunity for viral content, decide to document these experiences and share them with their online followers.

Just when their ghost investigation seems to be paying off with increased online traffic, the vloggers face backlash from traditional media and skeptical viewers who accuse them of fraud. Meanwhile, they can't shake off their eerie encounters which evolve from unsettling to outright terrifying.

Erin and Steve become increasingly concerned as Graham's obsession with the ghost and his online fame spin out of control. The film therefore becomes a commentary on internet fame and its implications, exploring how the relentless pursuit of viral attention can tear apart relationships, consume rational thought, and twist reality.

The film also introduces a documentary filmmaker Alice, who seeks to explore the truth behind Graham’s experiences, adding another layer to the film's narrative style. As she delves into the phenomenon, the line between fact and fiction further blurs, and audience is left to question the reality of what they're witnessing.

Death of a Vlogger shot in the style of found footage, brings a new level of realism to the genre. The decision to frame the story as a documentary adds a level of authenticity that enhances the horror elements of the film while simultaneously presenting a biting commentary on the world of social media and internet fame. Moreover, the strong performances from the main cast ensure that viewers are engaged and invested in their characters' journey from the beginning to the end.

This movie is not merely a tale of horror but also a sociological glimpse into our modern society’s obsession with virality and online fame. It underscores the mental and physical toll that the constant need to gain followers, likes, and shares can have on individuals. The film is equally adept at examining themes of public scrutiny, social media culture, the persuasive power of the internet, and the lengths individuals will go to for purportedly 15 minutes of fame.

The intelligent storytelling and well-executed performances make Death of a Vlogger an intriguing addition to the found-footage genre. While the film is certainly equipped with moments that will make viewers jump-in-fright, it's the psychological fear induced by the portrayal of internet obsession that leaves a haunting impression.

In summary, Death of a Vlogger is a fresh and topical take on the found footage horror genre. With its innovative narrative style, notable performances, and its commentary on our society’s obsession with social media, it stands out for all the right reasons in the crowded field of indie horror films.