Stalking Laura

Stalking Laura, is a spine-chilling dramatic thriller/horror movie from 1993, based on real-life incidents. This haunting and poignant film portrays the grim reality of stalking and workplace violence, providing a disturbing look into how individuals can become fixated on others to the point of obsession and unspeakable violence. The film stars Richard Thomas, Brooke Shields, and Viveka Davis under the astute direction of Michael Switzer.

Richard Thomas plays Richard Farley, an apparently ordinary and disciplined software professional who works for a high-tech company in Silicon Valley. Farley is portrayed as a technologically gifted individual, committed to his job, and is a seemingly average co-worker— the quintessential boy next door. However, beneath this façade lies a twisted mind, prone to obsessive tendencies, and a harbinger of the terrifying events yet to unfold. Richard Thomas delivers an impactful performance as Farley, truly embodying the eerie, obsessive nature of the character.

On the other hand, Brooke Shields, acclaimed for her earlier performances, stars as Laura Black, a bright, ambitious young engineer who newly joins Farley's company. Laura is depicted as a strong, independent woman dedicated to her job and passionate about her life. Shields brings warmth and strength to the character of Laura, highlighting her professionalism, ambition, and resilience -- attributes which are central to the film's narrative and Laura's fight against stalking.

Viveka Davis plays a supporting role, providing depth and substance to the film's narrative by adding dimensions of friendship, emotional support, and realistic working environment.

The movie begins when Farley becomes romantically attracted to Laura at first sight, and tries to win her affections. However, Laura, focused on her career, politely denies his advances. Unable to accept rejection, Farley's attraction spirals into an obsession driven by jealousy and extreme fixation, leading him to constantly torment and intimidate Laura.

The title Stalking Laura sets the stage for an intensely captivating storyline that unveils an escalating nightmare for Laura. It exposes the terrifying ordeal she undergoes as a victim of stalking, how her normal life and work environment become a living nightmare because of Farley's relentless pursuit. The narrative attempts to delve deep into the psyche of the stalker, exploring the depth and darkness of his derangements while focusing on the strength and resilience of the stalkee.

A notable aspect of this film is its attempt to portray the reality of a victim’s life which is often overlooked. Laura, despite showing much courage and strength to endure her ordeal, also grapples fearfully and helplessly with the local police and company management who initially overlook the severity of her situation. This mirrors how victims of stalking often struggle with the inaction and lack of understanding from authorities regarding their traumas.

The tension slowly builds as the narrative explores the disturbing reality behind stalking and the catastrophic outcomes it leads to. The viewers are gripped with suspense and horror as they watch Laura's relentless fight for survival against a man whose obsession knows no boundaries.

The film tries to balance the portrayal of Farley’s fixation and Laura’s resilience, reminding the audience that while it explores a deeply disturbing kind of truth, it also celebrates the courage and survival spirit of a woman.

Stalking Laura also underscores the social problem of workplace violence and stalking. It showcases how an individual's obsession, if unchecked, can escalate into a dangerous scenario, resulting in disastrous consequences, not just for the individuals involved, but for everyone around them.

Overall, Stalking Laura, with compelling performances from Richard Thomas, Brooke Shields, and Viveka Davis is a dramatic thriller grounded in reality. It masterfully combines the elements of fear, obsession, and courage to depict a chilling account of stalking and its dreadful consequences. The film stands as a chilling reminder of what can occur when obsession goes unchecked, acting not only as a thriller but also an important narrative of a widespread social menace and the silent courage of its victims.