Bernardo Hippert directs and co-writes with Pedro Muller a tale about the deadliest social media influencer in their short film, Target Audience. Just celebrating his ten-millionth subscriber, Mark (Andrew Vickers) seems to have found what it takes to be a YouTube sensation. The vlogger Mark has found his niche as a hitman vlogger, and just before every kill, he’s got his perfectly placed camera setup to capture all the action. Of course, Mark has clips of his kills and top ten lists, but that’s not enough, so he produces unboxing and apartment tours with his girlfriend, Amanda (Maria Yussef).
Soon, Mark learns that YouTube can be a fickle mistress, as his subscriber base drops, and he complains about copycats stealing his gimmick. Drastic measures must be taken, and as Mark analyzes which videos get better views than others, it’s time to make tough choices —no matter how personal it gets.
Mark (Andrew Vickers) urges viewers to subscribe for full access in this darkly satirical moment from Target Audience.
“Just celebrating his ten-millionth subscriber, Mark…seems to have found what it takes to be a YouTube sensation.”
Target Audience has one of those premises that, quite frankly, I wish I had thought of. It’s brilliant in its take on those who chase views, comments, and clicks, set against the cold, almost sociopathic demeanor of a hitman. Just how far would you go for more views and subscribers? Director Bernardo Hippert weaves the tale that opens like an SNL sketch and then comments about the killer instincts needed to be an influencer.
Andrew Vickers is almost too good as Mark the hitman. It takes great comedic talent to understand the story’s subtext while portraying a character completely unaware of it. The jokes fly fast and furious. Though quantity often trumps quality, Target Audience is a well-curated series of jokes that never overstays its welcome.
In the end, Target Audience presents some sharp satire that never loses sight of its dark premise. Bernardo Hippert and Pedro Muller successfully walk a very fine line. I mean, just how far off is a hitman and an influencer? Clever and fast, it leaves you with the uncomfortable question—how far would you go for a like?
"…I mean, just how far off is a hitman and an influencer?"
