Deadstream (2022)

Deadstream acts as a deft fusion of comedy and horror, capitalizing upon the strengths of both genres to produce laughs and gasps. The film effectively parallels the supernatural accrual of power with the amassing of fandoms by online influencers. It also happens to lampoon our central influencer character to great effect.

The film is inventive, fully utilizing its chosen form of found footage. The protagonist, Shawn, has determined to spend the night in a haunted house and document his experience meticulously while streaming it live to the internet.

The audience is provided with an unusually good excuse for why so many viewpoints are available and the motivation for monitoring them. Shawn covers the house in cameras, to say nothing of the minor videography arsenal he has strapped to his body at all times.

The stream chat is a highlight of the film; it is extremely authentic as well as hilarious. They match our character who appears to be ripped straight from the streaming sites, exhibiting the worst kinds of influencer behaviour. Shawn is committed to his conduct: he engages in "pranks" and "challenges", he hawks merchandise and sponsored products, and frequently courts controversy.

The film ultimately confronts the ugly fact that our paranormal entity and Shawn want the same thing: followers. This was a creative parallel between Mildred's and Shawn's worlds, providing insight into the evil forces they must barter with in order to participate in those worlds.

High on self-aware comedy without compromising on its creepy atmosphere, Deadstream is worth a stream for fans of horror and found footage.