The destructive ways in which lonely, desperate people use the Internet to attract online "friends" are explored in flamboyant style here by first-time writer-director Robert Mockler. Gloomy Kiya (Addison Timlin) is determined to escape her dismal, drug-fueled existence by shooting videos designed to appeal to YouTube junkies, beginning with a convenience store robbery in which she forces the initially nonchalant clerk to beg for his life. That piece receives enthusiastic response from most viewers—who seem as troubled as Kiya—but there is one exception: Burt (Ian Nelson), who pedantically blasts its creator as an attention-seeking hack and points to her supporters as proof of cultural calamity. Kiya goes on to seduce a sleazy motel manager (Larry Fessenden) into letting her tie him up for sex and then films his humiliation, but afterward takes him with her as a hostage. As they travel, the pair develop an odd bond, suggesting that Kiya may be developing an ability to interact with real people. Still, she insists on tracking down and confronting Burt. Mockler indulges in all sorts of cinematic tricks—brightly-colored montages of random images, hyperkinetic editing, blaring music—that are more exhausting than exhilarating. But while often overwrought and confusing, Like Me marks Mockler as an inventive filmmaker with promise. A strong optional purchase. (F. Swietek)
Like Me
Kino Lorber, 83 min., not rated, DVD: $29.99, Blu-ray: $34.99 Volume 33, Issue 4
Like Me
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