Nerds That Geek Movie Review: ‘We Need to Talk’

Written by John Edward Betancourt

Caution: This article contains spoilers for the motion picture, ‘We Need to Talk’.
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It is definitely safe to say, that we live in quite the amazing time. Because not only are we able to connect with anyone around the globe on a moment’s notice through technology, but that same technology has given rise to a new kind of star, the internet celebrity. That person who decades ago might have spent their life toiling about in meaningless jobs while dreaming of a life where they could have legions of adoring fans and a platform to do what they love. But now, with a little investment in the right gear and the right attitude and hook, anyone can become a star and so many have, and it is just incredible to see and hear the success stories that have come out this technological revolution.
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But while it is indeed amazing to see so many sidestep the traditional system and enjoy the success they deserve and share their talents with the world, becoming a sensation in this manner, does have its drawbacks. In that, some folks that obtain fame and fortune, don’t deserve it, and quickly reveal themselves to be nothing more than walking trash, the kind that are so foul they sully this path for others by creating hesitation for others to follow them when they have a similar hook. Plus, some aren’t prepared for the power of fame and how it can transform a person, and that leads to them losing touch with reality and their humility. Which begs quite the question, in that, how does one keep a person that has enjoyed internet fame grounded, all so they don’t become a ‘Whatever Happened to...’ piece on a gossip website?

Well as it turns out, there’s a brand-new motion picture out that explores the answer to that that very question and that makes We Need to Talk, quite the fascinating film. For this is a story that plunges us into the world of internet fame by introducing us a to man named Scott. Whom just so happens to be a famous ViewTuber that runs the ‘Great Scott Gamer’ channel and well, make no mistake about it… Scott has it all. Because his channel is a huge success, to the point where he gets to review the hottest games before they come out and he’s got a great girlfriend named Aly and the sky really is the limit. That is until Aly lets him know one random day, that the time has come for them to have an important talk and being forced to face the unknown, and reality, when it comes to the topic she wants to discuss, rattles him like never before.

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Because in essence, Aly’s decision to ask Scott to talk, finally forces him to realize that the life he leads isn’t quite as wonderful as he thought it was. Sure, he has millions of adoring fans that tune in often to see what he has to say about games, but he neglects Aly, and he doesn’t really give her what she emotionally needs. Not to mention, he really keeps everyone at bay and makes the channel his priority and that puts him at a crossroads. One where he needs to figure out how to balance life and the dream he leads and/or if that balance is even possible, because of what fame provides him with. Which brings forth beautiful commentary on what internet fame has done to people and how technology in general has taught us to connect with worlds that don’t provide us with what we really need… which is that all-important human connection.

But while that commentary is welcome and definitely gives one pause, there was mention of the fact that this motion picture works to answer the mysterious question that plagues people in Scott’s position and well, what is said here is quite powerful. For it informs us that those of us who are lucky enough to find this kind of fame, need to be surrounded with people that keep us connected to the real world and give us a life beyond our digital one. And they need to be GOOD people as well, the kind that genuinely care about who we are and not what we can do for them, and if we can find that, and receive honest feedback from those same people about where we are… then wonders can be accomplished and the superstar career that so many dream of… can be sustained for years on end.

Which seems like a simplistic answer to what looks like a complex problem, but it is the right answer for certain. Because it is the fantasies we reside in that are complex in nature. If anything, that wonderful analysis makes for one endearing movie, one that is also quite fun in nature. Thanks to some delightful laughs present, which makes the material accessible and palatable and not a download in the slightest. Plus, it features some quality performances that feel real and honest and well, if you’re looking for an uplifting movie that examines a brewing problem in our world in a fun and realistic and heartfelt light, then fire up your favorite streaming device and give this gem a look. You’ll be glad you did. 

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