CERT: 15 | PLATFORM: NETFLIX UK • APPLE • AMAZON | RELEASE DATE: OUT NOW
Desperately seeking to boost his social media presence, a rideshare driver concocts a deadly plan to go viral by murdering as many passengers possible. Rigging his vehicle with multiple cameras for a nonstop live stream of killer entertainment, Kurt Kunkle prepares for what he believes will be the defining moment for his channel. A satirical horror that focuses on the pitfalls of social media, Spree is a hauntingly real pastiche of fame-hungry individuals who have grown-up around the sphere of Internet culture.
With a captivating lead performance by Joe Keery, Spree manages to be an engaging romp from beginning to end. Admittedly, most of the enjoyment comes solely from Keery’s portrayal of Kurt Kunkle as he’s able to perfectly capture the narcissistic traits of a resentful young man and the pathetic nature of his plight into infamy. It’s unfortunate, however, that the film basks in a plethora of caricatures and focuses on some of the most vacuous individuals to grace the screen. A subtler approach would have given the film extra depth and could have been truly terrifying, although, it would have admittedly made for a completely different viewing experience.
To give credit where it’s due, Spree does a terrific job at accurately capturing the essence of Internet culture. Whether that be in the form of constant abuse in the comments or the manipulative and shallow nature of the individuals who use it, Spree does a good enough job at showing how it ultimately does nobody any good. A film that may appeal more to the younger generation, Spree is well worth a watch just for Keery’s powerhouse performance alone.


