Nerve

First things first, this is not a film for the faint-hearted. When watching Nerve, it is difficult to not get sucked into the highly tense moments. When high school senior Vee Delmonico (endearingly played by Emma Roberts) becomes immersed in an online game of truth or dare, she initially thinks that she is merely stepping out of her comfort zone and growing her confidence. In one dramatic night, however, things quickly get more sinister than Vee anticipated, and her every move starts to become manipulated by an anonymous community of “watchers”.

If you are completely averse to social media, then this may not entirely be the right choice of film, but for the hashtag-savvy viewer, this film provides plenty of twists and turns, mysterious characters and one adrenaline-fuelled game. Ultimately, the film subtly delves into the danger behind social media obsession and trolling. What really shines through in this film is how the audience is as easily hooked with the game Nerve as the characters in the film.

Roberts and co-star Dave Franco (who plays the handsome Ian) give enigmatic performances throughout the movie thus pulling viewers further into the heart of the obsession with the game. Roberts’ naivety and courage alongside the mysterious Franco make for a highly engaging watch. As the pair set off on an increasingly tense journey through Staten Island and New York City, the audience become hooked by the series of dares that bring them closer together.

As everything rapidly spirals out of control, the film builds the suspense right up to the gripping ending. Although Nerve may appeal mostly to teens and tweens, it is nonetheless a riveting and absorbing film with intriguing characters.

Laura Ewing

Nerve is released nationwide on 11^th August 2016.

Watch the trailer for Nerve here: