Is Under the Influence Worth Watching?
Answer: Maybe not, Under the Influence is likely a skip if you enjoy movies.
It features a runtime of 99 minutes and offers a standard storyline that appeals to general audiences.
Under the Influence Review
Last updated: January 13, 2026
Detailed Premise & Narrative Foundations
Released in the dynamic cinematic landscape of 2023, Under the Influence emerges as a significant entry in the Cinema domain. The narrative core of the film focuses on a sophisticated exploration of Adam Vaugn (Jayden Marcos) and Camden Fenton (Ian Holms) are straight influencers who gain clout by pretending to be gay. Unlike standard genre fare, Under the Influence attempts to deconstruct traditional tropes, offering a conventional take on its central themes.
The screenplay, appearing to prioritize narrative momentum and immediate impact, sets a stage where the stakes feel personal yet universal. Under the directorial eye of Walden Woods, every scene is crafted to contribute to the atmospheric weight of the story, ensuring that the Film elements serve the larger narrative arc rather than just providing spectacle.
Cast Performances: A Masterclass in Character Study
The success of any Film is often anchored by its ensemble, and Under the Influence features a noteworthy lineup led by Ian Holms. Supported by the likes of Jayden Marcos and Brandon Anderson, the performances bring a palpable realism to the scripted words.
Performance Analysis: While the cast delivers competent and professional performances, they are occasionally hampered by a script that leans into familiar archetypes. However, the sheer charisma of Ian Holms, Jayden Marcos, Brandon Anderson manages to keep the audience invested through the film's more predictable sequences. In the broader context of 2023 cinema, these performances stand as a testament to the evolving standards of acting within the Cinema space.
Directorial Vision & Technical Craftsmanship
From a technical perspective, Under the Influence is a marvel of 21st-century filmmaking. The cinematography, utilizing a moody and atmospheric color palette, significantly enhances the world-building aspects of the production. Each frame seems calculated to guide the viewer's emotional response, whether through wide, sweeping vistas or tight, claustrophobic close-ups that emphasize character isolation.
Technical Excellence: The production design and visual effects provide a solid foundation for the story, ensuring that the world of the film feels lived-in and authentic, even when the narrative logic falters. Furthermore, the sonic landscape—comprising both the score and sound design—adds a layer of subtextual narrative that rewards attentive viewers.
Narrative Pacing & Structural Integrity
The structure of Under the Influence follows a sophisticated brisk pace. Over its 99 minute duration, the film manages to balance exposition with action in a way that remains consistently entertaining. The second act, often the most difficult to manage, serves here as a crucible for character growth, leading toward a climax that feels both inevitable and surprising.
Critically, the editing choices by the team help maintain a narrative tension that rarely wavers. The sharp, concise editing ensures that not a single frame is wasted, making the film ideal for a modern audience that values efficiency in storytelling.
Cultural Impact & Global Resonance
Beyond its immediate entertainment value, Under the Influence resonates with contemporary social and cultural themes prevalent in the Film landscape of 2026. It addresses concepts such as the nature of heroism and personal legacy with a level of maturity that is often missing from major releases.
This cultural relevance is likely why it has garnered a 0/10 rating on our platform. Films like this bridge the gap between niche interest and global appeal, proving that stories rooted in specific human experiences can find a home with audiences worldwide, from the US and UK to India and beyond.
Plot Breakdown & Philosophical Subtext
Analyzing the plot deeper, Under the Influence is more than just its synopsis. It is an inquiry into the boundaries of human experience. Adam Vaugn (Jayden Marcos) and Camden Fenton (Ian Holms) are straight influencers who gain clout by pretending to be gay. Adam tells Camden that they've been found out and subsequently canceled. Andrew Miller, Brandon Anderson and Jayden Marcos are highschool friends who come together to hang out on a vacation.
The philosophical underpinnings of the third act suggest a worldview that is standard for its genre yet executed with high professional polish. This is not just a commercial product; it is a piece of art that invites discussion long after the credits have finished rolling.
Final Verdict: Is it Worth Watching?
In summary, our editorial assessment of Under the Influence (2023) is overwhelmingly negative. With an audience rating of 0/10 and strong performance metrics in the Cinema categories, it stands as a highly recommended experience for genre enthusiasts.
Whether you choose to experience it for the stellar performances from Ian Holms, Jayden Marcos, Brandon Anderson or the visual majesty of its technical execution, Under the Influence is a significant contribution to the cinema of 2023. It represents the kind of filmmaking that movieMx is proud to champion—original, bold, and ultimately, deeply human.
Parents Guide & Age Rating
Under the Influence has not been officially rated yet.
Final Verdict
Analyzing the audience sentiment, IMDb rating of 0/10, and global collection metrics, Under the Influence stands as a challenging project for the creators. It remains an essential piece of the 2023 cinematic year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Under the Influence movie hit or flop?
Under the Influence is considered a flop based on audience ratings of 0/10 and lower collections.
Is Under the Influence worth watching?
Based on the low rating of 0/10, Under the Influence may not be worth watching unless you are a die-hard fan.
Where can I watch Under the Influence online?
Under the Influence may be available for rent or purchase on digital platforms like Apple TV, Google Play, or Amazon Prime Video. Specific streaming availability can vary by country.
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Synopsis
Adam Vaugn (Jayden Marcos) and Camden Fenton (Ian Holms) are straight influencers who gain clout by pretending to be gay. Adam tells Camden that they've been found out and subsequently canceled. Andrew Miller, Brandon Anderson and Jayden Marcos are highschool friends who come together to hang out on a vacation.