Lurker is a 2025 American drama-thriller directed by Francis Galluppi. The film stars Théodore Pellerin and Archie Madekwe in a tense story of obsession and blurred boundaries within the celebrity world.
The plot follows Matthew, a quiet retail worker in Los Angeles, who becomes fascinated by Oliver, a fast-rising pop star. As Matthew gradually gets closer to Oliver, the relationship becomes dangerously intense. What begins as admiration turns into something darker, as fame, access, and obsession spiral into a life-threatening game.
Described as a “cat-and-mouse parasocial thriller,” Lurker dives deep into the dangers of fame, idolization, and the way social media fuels unhealthy relationships. After its premiere at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival, the film will receive a theatrical release in North America on August 22, 2025, through Mubi.
Lurker Age Rating
Lurker is rated R for language throughout and some sexual content. Here’s a detailed, spoiler-free look at its content areas to help parents understand what to expect:
Violence & Peril
The film contains a suspenseful, emotionally tense atmosphere, with psychological manipulation and escalating emotional conflict. While there’s no graphic violence, there are scenes of verbal intimidation and moments that suggest dangerous intent. The emotional tension can be quite intense, especially in the final act.
Language
There is frequent use of strong language throughout the film. Profanity includes repeated uses of the f-word and other coarse terms. The dialogue reflects a gritty, realistic portrayal of life in the LA celebrity scene.
Sexual Content
There are a few scenes involving sexual situations and conversations. The film includes suggestive moments and implications of intimacy that may not be suitable for younger viewers.
Mature Themes
The movie focuses on obsession, manipulation, fame, and parasocial relationships. It raises serious questions about identity, control, and how far people will go for influence or connection. These psychological themes are heavy and can be unsettling.
Is Lurker Suitable for Teens?
Ages 10–13: Not suitable. The strong language, adult themes, and emotionally intense content are not appropriate for younger viewers.
Ages 14–17: Not recommended for most. While there is no extreme violence or explicit sexuality, the film’s mature tone, strong language, and themes of obsession and manipulation make it best suited for older teens with parental guidance. Sensitive viewers may find the psychological elements disturbing.
Lurker is designed for an adult audience, especially those interested in the psychological consequences of celebrity culture and social media-driven relationships.
What Parents Can Do
Preview Before Watching: Parents should view the film first to judge if it’s appropriate for their teen, especially those under 17.
Talk About Online Boundaries: The film is a good entry point for conversations about parasocial relationships, digital obsession, and the emotional risks of idolizing public figures.
Help Teens Process the Ending: The story has morally gray characters and a dark emotional tone. Discussing the ending can help teens separate fiction from real-life dynamics.
Official Trailer
FAQs
Q: What is the age rating for Lurker?
A: Lurker is rated R for language throughout and some sexual content.
Q: Is Lurker appropriate for teens?
A: Not for younger teens. Older teens may watch with guidance, but the film’s intense emotional and psychological themes are geared toward adult viewers.
Q: Does Lurker contain graphic violence?
A: No. It focuses more on emotional tension and psychological intensity than on physical violence.
Q: Is there nudity or explicit sex in Lurker?
A: No explicit nudity, but there are some suggestive moments and sexual references.
Q: Where can I watch Lurker?
A: Lurker will be released in U.S. and Canadian theaters by Mubi on August 22, 2025. Focus Features will handle international distribution.