'LifeHack', a new screenlife film produced by Timur Bekmambetov, proves that even a well-executed entry in the genre can eventually feel overdone. Directed by Ronan Corrigan, the film releases on May 15, with a runtime of 1 hour and 37 minutes.
Rising Stars and Screenlife Format
The movie features Georgie Farmer as Kyle, a 17-year-old hacker, alongside James Scholz, Roman Hayeck Green, and Yasmin Finney. These teenagers form a group of hackers who shift from small-scale operations to targeting a tech billionaire, Don Heard, played by Charlie Creed-Miles.
Bekmambetov, known for films like 'Searching' and 'Unfriended', continues to explore the screenlife genre, which captures stories through computer and smartphone screens. However, the film's format, while initially captivating, eventually leads to viewer fatigue.
A Heist with a Digital Twist
Unlike typical thriller or horror screenlife films, 'LifeHack' adopts a heist narrative. The plot kicks off with Kyle turning the tables on a hacker attempting to breach his system, earning immediate audience support. The group then sets their sights on Heard's cryptocurrency fortune, using his influencer daughter Lindsey, portrayed by Jessica Reynolds, as their unwitting entry point.
Their initial success, securing $100,000, soon escalates into a more complex caper, requiring physical entry into Heard's office. The film's pace is maintained by Corrigan's direction, though the screenlife presentation might overwhelm viewers unfamiliar with the intricacies of digital navigation.
Performances and Screenlife Challenges
The cast, largely depicted in close-up shots resembling Zoom calls, manages to convey the tension and urgency of the plot's twists. Despite limited character development, the screenplay by Corrigan and Hope Elliott Kemp ensures the narrative remains engaging.
However, the inherent limitations of the screenlife format become apparent as the film progresses. As the story unfolds across various digital interfaces, audiences may find themselves longing for more traditional cinematic experiences.
Ultimately, 'LifeHack' exemplifies both the strengths and weaknesses of the screenlife genre. While it provides a fresh take on the heist film, the reliance on digital storytelling may leave viewers yearning for more conventional forms of entertainment.
Source: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-reviews/lifehack-review-screenlife-timur-timur-bekmambetov-1236593799/
