Mainstream

Directed by Gia Coppola, 'Mainstream' is a cliché comedy-drama that follows three Los Angeles residents on their path to internet stardom. The 94-minute feature is yet another film that shows its viewers the overexploited dangers of technology and social media. Viewers first meet Frankie (Maya Hawke), a young woman living in West Hollywood, haunted by her father's death. She works at a mundane job bartending with her friend Jake, with no idea of what she wants to do with her life except run her struggling Youtube channel. She soon encounters charismatic stranger Link (Andrew Garfield), who intrigues Frankie with his anti-technology, anti-social media views. Frankie, Link and Jake create a Youtube channel under the name 'No One Special' that focuses around a stereotypical, narcissistic influencer played by Link. As their channel gains traction, they are catapulted into internet stardom and are soon rubbing shoulders with some of the most popular influencers in LA. However, this new perfect life doesn't last forever - Tensions arise, business slows down. But when one of 'No One Special's videos drives a girl to suicide, will it all fall down or will they relish in their newfound fame? Maya Hawke gives a profound performance in the lead role, but her chemistry with co-star Andrew Garfield can't help but fall flat. However, Garfield plays Link as the unique, energetic character he's supposed to be. Don't be alarmed if you think 'Link' bears some resemblance to Nicolas Cage; the character is based on him, who is Coppola's second cousin. Nat Wolff gives a good performance as the typical boy best friend, hopelessly in love with the female lead. Although 'Mainstream' radiates a sense of idiosyncrasy, it can't help but make use of all the stereotypical tropes viewers would've seen plenty of times before. Be it the idea that phones and social media are toxic, or the naive girl enamoured by the charismatic stranger into a whole new world, while the loyal best friend is left behind. Either way, there's a high chance you've seen a film almost identical to 'Mainstream' without even realising it. One of the few unique things about 'Mainstream' is that their fame is limited; they might be one of the biggest channels on youtube, but if you ask a Hollywood celebrity who they are, they would probably have no clue. That's the thing that grounds it into the real world, it's much harder to get famous in Hollywood than it is to get famous on social media. Autumn Durald provides 'Mainstream' with beautiful cinematography that compliments the editing to a T. The editing, courtesy of Glen Scantlebury, also coincides with the techno, contemporary aesthetic of the film. If you're looking for other films that explore and highlight the dangers of social media and technology, the 2020 documentary 'The Social Dilemma' should be on your radar. As should the comedy thriller 'Spree', which stars Hawke's Stranger Things co-star Joe Keery. Something Coppola does well is to capture internet culture in a somewhat accurate way. She includes real influencers and celebrities: including the controversial Jake Paul, Patrick Starrr and Riverdale actor Charles Melton. But as well as directing, Coppola also penned the screenplay for the film alongside Tom Stuart. The two create a brilliantly written, smooth flowing mixture of sincere, passionate moments and hilarious comedy. All in all, Gia Coppola gives viewers an above-average film that features both over-used themes as well as derivative plotlines and subplots that you've probably seen many times

I watched the movie despite rather harsh reviews from critics, and I can safely say that it was a great decision. A shocking portrayal of, even if maybe a little outdated and slightly exaggerated, the behind the scenes of internet stars and the consequences of their actions.

difficult...... but it's greate movie. It has many different meanings and subtexts and everyone can understand it in their own way. And the film's ratings are a confirmation of my words. I hope you enjoyed the movie

A very strong first act and a manically self deprecating performance by Garfield on par with Robin Williams in Fisher King. The movie quickly devolves in the second act into a dark and heavy handed meditation on narcissism. Disappointing considering how much Garfield and the rest of the cast bring to their roles. There are however some interesting moments and visuals through out.

I was hoping it'd be good like Under the Silver Lake but it was pretty boring.

The only saving grace for this movie is Andrew Garfield's performance.

powerful message and true. Andrew was incredible.

Mainstream takes a concept about demoliting addiction to social media and squanders it in a movie that will be dated in 0.1 seconds

This is what happens when a bunch of people who don't understand how youtube works try to make a movie about it. I think it shows the serious disconnect between the celebrity bubble and the rest of the world, they've really lost touch with the things everyday people face.

I think that despite everything it is not a bad movie. The plot is interesting and Andrew Garfield does a very good performance. I just think that the execution of the story failed on the screen.