Bad Match

Bad Match is an electrifying and riveting 2017 horror, thriller, and drama movie that navigates through the realms of online dating, emotional manipulation, and paranoid obsessions. The movie was expertly directed by David Chirchirillo, known for his distinctive style in creating realistic, and at times terrifying scenarios.

At the heart of Bad Match's engaging story is Harris, played convincingly by Jack Cutmore-Scott, who's a comfortable LA-based bachelor with a knack for navigating through the world of online dating. A moderately successful English bachelor in his late twenties, Harris has hitherto been living life on his own terms. He has not just embraced the online dating culture but has also mastered the art of distancing himself from any semblance of emotional commitment, quickly moving on to the next date when things threaten to get serious. With his charming demeanor and casual approach towards life, Harris represents the modern, digital-age playboy who hasn't found a reason good enough to leave behind his cavalier lifestyle.

However, the trajectory of Harris's life takes a dramatic shift when he matches with Riley, a woman so unlike his previous dates. Lili Simmons beautifully plays the role of this seemingly innocent, optimistic, yet somewhat enigmatic character. In the beginning, Riley seems like just another girl who has entered Harris's love-them-and-leave-them roster, but things quickly take a turn when Harris tries to leave her behind.

As the bond between them advances, an overbearing presence creeps into Harris’s life. Riley's initial persona, which seems like a breath of fresh, sweet air, evolves into a web of paranoia and increasingly dangerous obsession that sends Harris's life spiraling out of control. The ephemeral nature of online relationships, which was his comfort zone, suddenly becomes his nightmare.

Brandon Scott complements the main cast as Harris's mate, Chuck. As Harris's laid back and often nonchalant friend who seems perpetually amused by his romantic exploits. Harris turns to Brandon as his life rapidly dissolves from a breezy rom-com to a twisted psychological thriller.

Bad Match is not a typical horror-thriller movie. It probes the dark underbelly of dating apps and explores the potential horrors that could accompany digital hookups. It is a cautionary tale of modern dating aimed at the swipe right, no strings attached generation. The script reveals how dangerous it can be when boundaries are crossed, and obsessions are fed. The movie keeps you on edge, wondering how far Riley will go and whether Harris will ever be able to escape her clutches.

Chirchirillo sharply helms the movie through the intricate narrative labyrinth, ensuring a sense of impending doom is present throughout the story. It exposes the veritable Pandora's box that online dating can become, effectively blending themes of romance, obsession, fear, and manipulation into a captivating plot. The shifts between lighter romantic moments to darker, terrifying scenes are skillfully orchestrated, making for a gripping watch.

All performances are top-notch. Cutmore-Scott does an excellent job portraying the instantly likable Harris, whose life descends into chaos. His transformation from a carefree bachelor to a man pushed to extreme lengths to salvage his life is impressively convincing. Simmons' portrayal of Riley is equally compelling. She transitions smoothly from the seemingly perfect match to a sinister, obsessed woman, ensuring the audience is constantly unsure about what she'll do next.

In conclusion, Bad Match is an engrossing thriller movie that delves deep into the pitfalls of online dating in the Digital Age. It’s a bone-chilling, psychological thriller that gives viewers a heightened sense of the potential dangers that lurk behind seemingly innocent online interactions. A fantastic and solid narrative, coupled with commendable performances from Cutmore-Scott, Simmons, and Scott, makes Bad Match a must-watch.