"Unraveling a Desperate Quest for Fame"

I Think She Did It (2024) is a captivating comedic mystery short film directed by Zack Travis, deftly exploring themes of identity and societal validation in the digital age. Salomé Robert-Murphy shines as the protagonist, skillfully portraying the journey from longing for attention to grappling with the consequences of being falsely accused as a serial bank robber.

The film’s opening scene sets a perfect hook, as the protagonist’s video calls to her friends go unanswered. Robert-Murphy draws the audience in, each time mustering a smile in anticipation of their answer only for it to immediately fall when the dial stops. Her face openly portrays her familiar sinking morale. It’s a brutally honest depiction of humanity’s willingness to perform in return for connection.

She finally relents and turns to social media. Hensel features here as an exaggerated TikTok influencer, planning to dine in the torch at the Statue of Liberty and promising her adoring fans that she will wave to them on the ferry. It’s a touch of comedic horror, all too familiar in the modern age. It serves in direct contrast to Paradise, later appearing as investigator into the robberies, who helps to ground the narrative with her matter-of-fact attitude.

Visually, the film is a treat, with Travis effectively invoking a sense of claustrophobia within the protagonist’s apartment. The audience feels trapped alongside her, feeling intimately familiar with her with the support of certain visual elements like the bowl of candy and childlike bedding. Close-up shots of Paradise and Robert-Murphy feel dream-like and anxious.

As the protagonist navigates her newfound notoriety, the film cleverly satirizes society’s obsession with visibility and validation, offering a sharp critique of the dangers of seeking fame in the digital age. As Robert-Murphy’s character denies the accusations against her, the film poses the question: what is fame, really? And what is she willing to sacrifice for it? Chillingly, the final line implies that she isn’t worried about the origins of the eyes suddenly turned to her, but rather just grateful to finally be observed instead of the observer. She practically admits to the crimes she did not commit in return for her time in the spotlight.

I Think She Did It entertains and challenges in equal measure, with stellar performances, clever writing, and timely themes making it a must-watch for anyone interested in a fresh, humorous take on the perils of our fame-obsessed modern era, and the means we would go to for our ten minutes of fame.