Thirst Trap is a sinister and unsettling indie film that pushes the limits of viewer discomfort
by Nav Qateel
A number of years ago I reviewed a movie by Japanese auteur Hisayasu Satô, titled Hana-Dama: The Origins, and was a film that left an indelible mark on my psyche. It contained extremely odd sex scenes with a script and direction that felt almost experimental, and while there were definitely parallels that one could draw here, this unusual effort never quite reached the utter madness of Satô’s whacky affair—thankfully.
According to Google a “thirst trap” refers to a social media post that’s meant to make people sexually interested in the person posting.
With that out of the way…
Filmed entirely on an iPhone 13 Pro, Thirst Trap initially presents itself as a modern social commentary on how people can be driven to do the most outrages things as they search for fame, wealth and recognition in todays faced-paced, short-clip landscape. However as more story is revealed, a far more sinister tale rears its ugly head in the shape of sexual assault, bullying and blackmail, painting a picture that’s unfortunately recognizable and believable—but only just.
We follow several actors who vary in experience and are trying to get work, but due to circumstances beyond their control they are unable to catch a break. Eventually they do get offered a gig working with Mason (Nic Andrews), a famous influencer, however Mason prefers indulging in “casting-couch” abuse particularly with straight men, where he flaunts his power over these desperate actors.
The work that’s been promised never materializes and Mason quickly moves on to his next victim. He shows no remorse when he’s confronted, coming off as self-centered and arrogant. While Mason is a repulsive character, he’s actually by far the most interesting, which is in part due to Andrews’ performance, as he really gives it his all.
The actual story meanders quite a bit, never always managing to focus properly, leaving uncomfortably long stretches where nothing happens to progress things forward. It wasn’t a deal breaker, and creating a disturbing journey in Thirst Trap is writer/director Bob Freville’s intent.
One can see Freville has a ton of ideas in his head and he’s trying to convey as much as possible on screen. I’m sure in time he’ll settle into his stride and find that focus that’s missing from this interesting effort.
At times Thirst Trap is extremely uncomfortable to watch, with the final scene being one of those moments, followed by a scene of surgery during the end credits. It won’t be for everyone, but it is a film that will make you think long after the credits have finished. I’m glad I watched Thirst Trap because there’s a lot of information being presented in a unique, and at times, brave way.
If you want to read more about Thirst Trap and writer/director Bob Freville, take a look at the INFLUX Interview with Freville.
Nav’s Grade: C+