The Dark Side of Fandom: The Story of Celebrity Crush
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The Dark Side of Fandom: The Story of Celebrity Crush

Updated: Aug 19, 2023

Have you ever heard of the dark side of fandom? It's the side that's rarely talked about, the side that's hidden behind the glitz and glamour of Hollywood. Crushing on a celebrity sounds innocuous, however it is the side that's filled with obsession, stalking, and even violence. In this article, we'll delve deep into the disturbing world of celebrity crushes and the dangerous lengths some fans will go to satisfy their obsessions.


In today's world, the obsession with celebrities and their lives has reached new heights. While most fans are respectful and admire their favorite stars from afar, there are some who take their admiration to a dangerous level. This is the dark side of fandom that we will explore in this article, focusing on the 2021 independent thriller film, "Celebrity Crush," starring Oliver Robins, a child star of the classic horror film, "Poltergeist."

The story of "Celebrity Crush" explores this phenomenon in a thrilling and thought-provoking way. Furthermore, the film also marks Oliver Robins' Hollywood comeback story, as he returns to the big screen after a long hiatus. Robins' performance in "Poltergeist" was iconic, and his return to the horror genre in "Celebrity Crush" is sure to excite fans. In this article, we will examine the elements that make up a successful thriller film, including character development, plot twists, and suspenseful music. We will also explore other Hollywood comeback stories, as well as films similar to "Celebrity Crush" that tackle the topic of dangerous fandom. So, sit back, relax, and let's dive into the dark and thrilling world of "Celebrity Crush" and the dangers of fandom.

Savant Artists believes that great storytelling is at the heart of every successful film. We have worked on numerous films that have received critical acclaim and commercial success, and have identified the key elements that make up gritty thriller films. Celebrity Crush is available across a swath of streaming platforms including Apple+, Amazon Prime, Tubi, & many others via Random Media.


Remember, fandom can be a beautiful thing. It can bring people together, create communities, and give us a sense of belonging. But there is also a dark side to fandom that we don't often talk about. It's the side that makes us lose sight of reality, the side that can turn obsession into something dangerous and even deadly.


In this article, we'll explore the dark side of fandom through the lens of one of its most extreme manifestations: Celebrity Crush. We'll take a deep dive into the psyche of those who suffer from this condition and the toll it can take on both the fan and the celebrity they obsess over. But be warned, this article is not for the faint of heart. It will be raw, gritty, and at times, downright scary. Crushing on a celebrity may sound harmless, but this article dives into the darker side of obsession, stalking, and violence


So, buckle up and get ready for a journey into the dark underbelly of fandom. We'll explore the origins of Celebrity Crush, the impact it has on those involved, and the disturbing stories of those who have taken their obsession to dangerous levels. But we'll also examine the complexities of this condition and the role it plays in our society.


Are you ready to explore the dark side of fandom? Click one of the sections to jump down and read about a specific section:

 

Darkside of Fandom

Fandom is often portrayed as a harmless and fun pastime, but the truth is that it can be a dark and dangerous obsession. The anonymity of the internet has made it easier for fans to access their favorite celebrities, but it has also made it easier for them to cross boundaries and invade their privacy. From sending threatening messages to showing up uninvited at their homes, some fans have taken their obsession to terrifying levels.

Fandom refers to the collective group of fans who share an intense passion and enthusiasm for a particular celebrity, pop culture franchise, or creative work. While fandom can be a positive and enjoyable experience for many people, there is also a dark side to fandom that involves obsession, stalking, and even violence. This darker aspect of fandom is often fueled by a sense of entitlement and a lack of boundaries, where fans become fixated on their idols to the point where they engage in dangerous and harmful behavior. This can include sending threatening messages, stalking, and even physical violence towards celebrities or other fans who do not share their same level of obsession. It's important to recognize the potential dangers of fandom and take steps to promote a healthy and respectful fan culture. What is Toxic Fandom?


One example of this dark side of fandom is the case of John Hinckley Jr., who became obsessed with actress Jodie Foster after seeing her in the film "Taxi Driver." Hinckley's obsession eventually led him to attempt to assassinate then-President Ronald Reagan in an effort to impress Foster.

When crushing on a celebrity goes to far

Another example is the case of Rebecca Schaeffer, an actress who was stalked and ultimately killed by an obsessed fan in 1989. The fan had been able to obtain Schaeffer's home address through the California DMV and showed up at her apartment, fatally shooting her.


In recent years, social media has made it easier for fans to connect with celebrities, but it has also increased the risk of dangerous behavior. For example, in 2016, singer Christina Grimmie was shot and killed by an obsessed fan who had been stalking her on social media.


These examples highlight the dark side of fandom and the dangers of obsession and stalking. It is important for fans to understand the boundaries and respect the privacy of celebrities, and for society as a whole to recognize and address this disturbing phenomenon. If you are interested in diving further into the topic, check out this article from Fangirlish, Lets Talk About The Dark Side of Fandom. #CrushingOnACelebrity

 

Crushing on a Celebrity?: The Rise of Dangerous Fandom

Fandom is the term used to describe the enthusiastic and dedicated following of a particular media franchise, celebrity, or cultural phenomenon. It is a cultural practice that has been around for centuries, but with the advent of the internet and social media, it has taken on a new form. While fandom can be a positive force that brings people together, it also has a dark side that is often overlooked. The rise of dangerous fandom has become a growing concern, and it is important to understand the dangers that come with excessive idolization and how social media enables dangerous behavior.

The obsession with celebrities and its dangers:

The obsession with celebrities is not a new phenomenon, but with the rise of social media, it has become easier for fans to connect with their idols on a more personal level. This can create a false sense of intimacy, leading to a dangerous level of obsession. Fans can become so invested in their idols that they lose sight of reality and become unable to distinguish between fiction and reality. This can lead to dangerous behavior such as stalking, harassment, and even violence. For example, in 1989, actress Rebecca Schaeffer was killed by a fan who had become obsessed with her after watching her on a television show.


How social media enables dangerous behavior:

Social media has played a significant role in the rise of dangerous fandom. Platforms such as Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok have made it easier for fans to connect with their idols and other fans. While this can be a positive thing, it can also lead to the normalization of dangerous behavior. For example, cyberbullying and harassment have become rampant on social media, with fans attacking others who do not share their opinions or support their idols. Additionally, social media can create a feedback loop that encourages dangerous behavior. Fans who engage in dangerous behavior may receive attention from their idols or other fans, which can encourage them to continue their behavior. Unfortunately, per the Pew Research Center, "Nearly half of U.S. teens have been bullied or harassed online, with physical appearance being seen as a relatively common reason why. Older teen girls are especially likely to report being targeted by online abuse overall and because of their appearance." Thankfully passionate lawmakers and volunteers are making an effort to combat the pressing challenges of cyberbullying. The Department of Justice is making Bullying and Internet Safety a Top Priority for U.S. Attorney’s Office Community Outreach Staff to help combat rampant internet misconduct.


Fandom can be a positiveforce, but it also has a dark side that should not be ignored. The rise of dangerous fandom has become a growing concern, and it is important to understand the dangers that come with excessive idolization and how social media enables dangerous behavior. Fans must learn to distinguish between healthy admiration and dangerous obsession, and platforms must take responsibility for the harmful behavior that occurs on their sites. By acknowledging the dangers of dangerous fandom and taking steps to address them, we can create a safer and healthier environment for all fans.

 

Oliver Robins: From Child Star to Horror Icon

The characters in a drama film are the driving force behind the story. They are the ones that the audience connects with emotionally, and their actions shape the plotline. Well-developed and relatable characters are crucial to the success of a drama film.


Oliver Robins is an American actor who rose to fame as a child star in the 1980s. He is best known for his role as Robbie Freeling in the horror classic, Poltergeist. Robins' career began at the young age of six when he was cast in a number of television commercials. His natural talent and adorable looks made him a popular choice among directors, and soon he landed his first major role in the hit TV show, "Falcon Crest".

However, it was his role as Robbie Freeling in the 1982 horror movie, Poltergeist, that cemented Robins' status as a horror icon. The movie, directed by Tobe Hooper and produced by Steven Spielberg, was a massive hit and has since become a cult classic. Robins' portrayal of the young boy who communicates with spirits and is ultimately kidnapped by evil entities captivated audiences around the world. His performance in the movie earned him critical acclaim and established him as one of the most promising child actors of his time.


After Poltergeist, Robins continued to work in Hollywood, starring in a number of TV shows and movies. He also made a return to the horror genre, starring in films like Poltergeist II: The Other Side and Airborne. Despite his success as a child actor, Robins took a break from acting in the late 90s to focus on his education. However, he later returned to the entertainment industry and has since worked as a producer, writer, and director.

 

Poltergeist: A Classic Horror Film

Poltergeist, a classic horror film released in 1982, tells the story of a family whose home is invaded by malevolent spirits. The film stars JoBeth Williams, Craig T. Nelson, and Oliver Robins, among others. The film is known for its impressive visual effects and its ability to blend horror with humor. Interested in reading the original write up, check out the following from the New York Times, 'POLTERGEIST' FROM SPIELBERG.


The film revolves around the Freeling family, whose suburban home is haunted by malevolent spirits. After discovering the spirits are trying to communicate with their young daughter Carol Anne, the family seeks the help of a group of paranormal investigators to save their daughter and their home.

One of the main themes of Poltergeist is the fear of the unknown. The spirits in the film are mysterious and unpredictable, causing fear and anxiety for the characters and the audience. The film also explores the theme of the American Dream and how it can be shattered by unseen forces.


Poltergeist has had a significant impact on the horror genre. The film's use of special effects and its ability to blend horror with humor has influenced many horror films that followed it. Poltergeist also introduced the concept of a haunted house as a popular setting for horror films.

Poltergeist is a classic horror film that has stood the test of time. Its themes of fear and the unknown continue to resonate with audiences today, and its influence on the horror genre is undeniable. If you're a horror fan, Poltergeist is a must-see film. Also, there are several rumors percolating online about the Poltergeist cast, read this article from Vanity Fair about the production, What Really Happened During the Making of Poltergeist.

 

Celebrity Crush: A New Take on Obsession

"Celebrity Crush" is a 2019 thriller film directed by Oliver Robins. The movie follows the story of a single mother, Emily, who wins a contest to have dinner with her celebrity crush, a famous actor named Jonathan Blakely. Emily's life becomes consumed with her obsession for Jonathan, and she soon spirals out of control. She begins to stalk him and develops a dangerous fixation, leading to a series of disturbing events that threaten both their lives.

The film explores the dangerous consequences of obsession and the dark side of fandom. Emily's infatuation with Jonathan is so intense that she loses touch with reality and becomes a threat to his safety. The movie also touches on the idea of parasocial relationships, where fans feel a strong emotional connection with celebrities who they have never met in person.

Throughout the film, Emily's obsession with Jonathan becomes increasingly dangerous, and her behavior becomes more erratic. Luring him back to her place and imprisoning him. The film also explores the impact of social media on celebrity culture and how it can contribute to the obsession with fame.


Overall, "Celebrity Crush" is a chilling portrayal of the dark side of fandom and the dangers of obsessive behavior. It raises important questions about the relationship between celebrities and their fans and the impact of media on our perceptions of fame.


Q&A With Director Oliver Robins

HOW DID YOU COME UP WITH THE IDEA OF CELEBRITY CRUSH?

Having experienced some personal run-ins with obsessive fans, the idea of a twisted love story came to mind. I took the concept one step further where the character was not only commmited, but had sociopathic tendencies that generated into lunacy. While the situations at times boarder on black comedy, they are always grounded in reality and the audience is put on edge.

WHAT FILM INSPIRED OR INFLUENCED CELEBRITY CRUSH?

I have always been a lover of black comedy and thrillers, and films that play with the rules of the genre, and sometimes even supplant them. I’ve always admired the way the film MISERY had comedic undertones, and at the same time, was extremely horrific. There are moments in Misery where you’re uncertain you should laugh or be scared out of your mind. The best moments in Misery supply the audience with both feeling, twisting the genres, and finally, delivering a horrific mix of laughter and screams.

WHAT WAS THE TOUGHEST ROLE TO CAST?

The role of Emily was no doubt the most difficult role to cast. The actress had to be accessible and attractive, and at the same time, (even at her most alluring moments), show sociopathic tendencies. The film is told in a non-linear fashion, flashing back and forth, between different moments of Emily’s seduction. Each of those chapters in our story we strived to show different parts of Emily’s personality, each peeling back another layer of Emily’s insanity -- each moment revealing a part of Emily’s psycho nature that propels our story forward. The actress we chose for the role, Alissa Schneider successfully plays those important moments of “crazy”, racheting up the lunacy at the appropriate moments. She takes us on a roller coaster ride as her unpredictable nature drives the terror.


WHAT WERE SOME OF THE CHALLENGES OF PRODUCTION?

Our limited 20 thousand production proved to be extremely challenging -- after our producer Michael Baumgarten scheduled the show, we learned there was only enough money to shoot the entire film in 11 days. And many days we would be forced to shoot 15 pages a day, littered with special effects, and other technical complications. As the director, I was scared -- nothing I learned in film school prepared me for the obstacles ahead of me. Having never acted, and directed at the same time, I gained a new apprecition of Orson Welles, and Clint Eastwood, two notable directors who also acted in their films. I found it difficult to gauge my acting and develop a continuity of performance, especially since show had an intense and rapid shooting schedule. There was pretty much no room for error as there was no contingency for additional dates to shoot. Intensifying the stress for the crew was the sweltering heat -- we were shooting in the height of summer in Florida in a “dungeon” location that had no air conditioning. The cast and crew would have to take breaks to avoid fainting. While it definitely increased the stress on the set, it helped the cast get into character and the live the terror of the story.

 

Elements of a Suspenseful Thriller Film

A successful thriller film must keep audiences on the edge of their seats with tension, suspense, and unexpected plot twists. Here are some key elements that contribute to a thrilling movie:


  1. High stakes: The story must involve high stakes that keep the audience invested in the outcome. Whether it's a life-or-death situation, a race against time, or a high-stakes heist, the consequences of failure must be significant.

  2. Suspenseful pacing: Thriller films often have a slow build-up of tension, with each scene adding to the suspense. The pacing should be deliberate, with the tension gradually increasing until the climax.

  3. Compelling protagonist: A successful thriller film needs a protagonist that the audience can root for, someone who is relatable and likable, but also flawed. The character must face significant obstacles and challenges that test their resolve.

  4. Worthy antagonist: An equally compelling antagonist is also necessary to make the story more engaging. The villain should be intelligent, ruthless, and have a clear motive for their actions.

  5. Plot twists and surprises: The best thriller films keep audiences guessing until the very end. The plot should have unexpected twists and turns that keep viewers engaged and unsure of what will happen next.

  6. Suspenseful music: Music can play a significant role in building suspense in a thriller film. A haunting score can create a sense of unease and uncertainty, while a fast-paced soundtrack can create excitement and tension.

  7. Setting and atmosphere: The setting and atmosphere of a thriller film can also contribute to its success. A dark, foreboding location can create a sense of danger and unease, while a bright, bustling city can create a sense of urgency and chaos.

By incorporating these key elements, filmmakers can create a thrilling and engaging movie that will keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

 

Films about the dark side of Fandom

Films that explore the dark side of fandom often delve into the obsessive and dangerous behavior that can arise from an unhealthy attachment to a celebrity or a particular fandom. One such film is "The Fan" (1996), which tells the story of a deranged fan named Gil Renard, played by Robert De Niro, who becomes fixated on his favorite baseball player and takes his love for the game to deadly extremes. The film examines the psychological damage that can occur when an individual's fixation with a celebrity or a fandom becomes all-consuming.


Another film that explores the dark side of fandom is "Misery" (1990), based on the novel by Stephen King. The story centers on a successful author named Paul Sheldon, played by James Caan, who is kidnapped and held captive by his obsessive fan, Annie Wilkes, played by Kathy Bates. The film depicts the terrifying consequences of a fan's unhealthy fixation with their idol, and the extreme lengths they may go to in order to control their favorite celebrity.

"Stalker" (1979) is another film that examines the darker side of fandom. The movie follows a writer and a scientist as they hire a guide, or "Stalker," to lead them through a mysterious and forbidden area known as "The Zone." The film explores themes of obsession, disillusionment, and the danger of becoming fixated on something or someone to the point of losing oneself entirely.

Other films that explore the dark side of fandom include "Misery," "The King of Comedy," and "Single White Female." All of these films explore the ways in which fandom can become an unhealthy obsession, and the dangers that can result when that obsession is left unchecked.


Overall, these films demonstrate the consequences that can result from an unhealthy attachment to a celebrity or a fandom. From stalking and kidnapping to extreme violence, these movies highlight the disturbing and often dangerous behavior that can emerge when someone becomes too fixated on their favorite celebrity or fandom.

 

Exploring the Dark Side of Fandom

Fandom is often portrayed as a harmless and fun pastime, but the truth is that it can be a dark and dangerous obsession. The anonymity of the internet has made it easier for fans to access their favorite celebrities, but it has also made it easier for them to cross boundaries and invade their privacy. From sending threatening messages to showing up uninvited at their homes, some fans have taken their obsession to terrifying levels.


Fandom has been around for as long as there have been people who admire and idolize others. It is a natural human tendency to look up to someone, to want to emulate them, and to feel a sense of belonging to a community of like-minded individuals. However, while fandom can be a positive force, it also has a dark side that has been explored in various films and documentaries over the years.

One of the most famous examples of the dark side of fandom is the murder of John Lennon in 1980. Mark David Chapman, a fan of Lennon's, shot and killed the musician outside his apartment building in New York City. Chapman was obsessed with Lennon and believed that by killing him, he would become famous. The murder shocked the world and highlighted the dangers of unchecked fandom.

Another example is the documentary "Catfish" which explores the dangers of online fandom. The film follows a young man who becomes embroiled in a relationship with a woman he meets online. As their relationship develops, the man discovers that the woman is not who she claimed to be, and that her online persona was a fabrication designed to manipulate and deceive him. The film highlights the dangers of online fandom, and the ease with which people can create false identities online.


The film "The Fan" starring Robert De Niro, discussed above in the Films about the dark side of Fandom section, explores the dark side of celebrity worship. De Niro plays a deranged fan who becomes obsessed with a baseball player played by Wesley Snipes. As his obsession grows, De Niro's character becomes increasingly unstable, and begins to engage in violent behavior in an attempt to get closer to his idol. The film is a chilling exploration of the dangers of unchecked fandom, and the ways in which celebrity worship can lead to violence.


While fandom can be a positive force, it also has a dark side that has been explored in various films and documentaries. From the murder of John Lennon to the fictional stories of "The Fan" and "Misery," these examples serve as cautionary tales of the dangers of unchecked fandom. As we continue to idolize and admire celebrities and public figures, it is important to remember that they are human beings, and that our fandom should never become an unhealthy obsession.

 

Conclusion

The release of the 2021 independent thriller film, "Celebrity Crush," starring Oliver Robins, has shone a light on the dark and dangerous side of fandom. As we explored the elements that make up a successful thriller film, the Hollywood comeback stories of actors like Oliver Robins, and other films that tackle the topic of dangerous fandom, we have come to realize the complexity and impact of this phenomenon on both fans and celebrities.

Poltergeist, the classic horror film that launched Oliver Robins' career, reminds us that the entertainment industry can create a deep connection between fans and celebrities. However, when that connection turns into obsession, stalking, or violence, the consequences can be dire. It is imperative that we have open and honest discussions about the dangers of fandom, and work towards creating a safe and respectful environment for all.


We must recognize that fandom can be both beautiful and dangerous, and we must actively work to promote healthy and respectful fan-celebrity relationships. Crushing on a celebrity can and should be a harmless part of enjoying the entertainment business. Together, we can raise awareness about the dark side of fandom and prevent anyone from falling victim to obsession and stalking. Let us come together as a community and create a safer, more inclusive fandom culture. #fandom #poltergeist #thrillerfilms #OliverRobbins #CelebrityCrush #darksideoffandom #obsession #stalking #awareness

 

More Information on Poltergeist, Oliver Robins, and Toxic Fandom


Excellent Film Resources

If you're interested in learning more about the film industry and improving your filmmaking skills, there are many excellent resources available online. Some of our favorites include the American Film Institute, the Sundance Institute, and the International Documentary Association. Additionally, many film schools and universities offer degree programs in film


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