Doing Stuff in the Forest: Murmur Review

By: Myriam Akbar

Murmur is a 2024 multi-genre film, following a group of friends who go into the woods to explore a new augmented reality device. As someone with slight technophobia and very little technological hubris, the trippy nature of the visuals freaked me out! However, I will say I find instant relief knowing I’m not interested in fooling around with such a thing. The main genre present is sci-fi/horror, as the characters are experimenting with a horror themed game that distorts reality. Like with any film in my fuck-around-and-find-out category, the characters assume nothing could go wrong. What sets this film apart from others I’ve put under that label, is how it cleverly uses social criticism of technology while mocking horror tropes. For example, the classic: inconveniently tripping over something. But here, the reason for tripping is because there was a projected image that got in the way. 

It also calls out the dangers of social media challenges and trends (like the violence that came from the Slenderman) by having characters prioritize recording over safety. The dissolution of boundaries between the characters and reality is what created fear for me when watching this film. More so than the concept and chilling visual imagery. This is because behavior like that does happen in reality, more than we like to admit. People commit crimes and put their health at risk for some internet engagement. That’s why this isn’t the kind of film where you will find yourself deeply invested in the characters and their survival. There’s a level of accountability that has to be taken when one chooses to become a “guinea pig.” The characters are literally subjecting themselves to whatever issues arise from using an alternate reality system. I think when the audience is aware of this, they view the survival aspect as less compelling. While there are still stakes, the characters feel less like victims and more like willing participants… which they are. 

My favorite thing about Murmur is how it successfully intertwines various other genres: comedy, found footage, mockumentary, and social commentary. Another aspect I believe is done very well, is the intentional dialogue used in the script. It emphasizes the narcissism reinforced by humans when they doubt the significance and strength of nature. Similarly, it shows the lack of nuanced thinking that exists with unfiltered technological hubris. Another thing about the dialogue that I liked is that the interactions between characters felt natural. The satire also works in this film because of its relevance and timing, like when a character refers to the group as the “real teenagers of the redwoods.” It shows how much youth is sociologically impacted by social media. 

Visually, there’s a lot going on which makes sense because the characters are having different experiences at the same time. So, even viewers are experiencing the content differently. It felt like I was time traveling or being transported to each setting that the characters went to. Although I enjoyed that experience, it can be confusing or distracting for some viewers. It’s one of those films that you need to pay attention to. There’s also some non-linear scenes that aren’t memorable but that’s not a significant criticism.

Murmur is a fun watch that I would describe as a mix of two horror films — As Above, So Below and Stay Alive. The first because of the found footage elements and curiosity-killed-the-cat factor. And the second because it involves a horror game that ends with blood. It’s currently only available to rent but I highly recommended checking it out, it’s worth the watch!

Photo Cred: Wikipedia