Overview of Tragedy Girls

Tragedy Girls is a 2017 horror-comedy film that delves into the darkly humorous world of two high school seniors, McKayla Hooper and Sadie Cunningham, who are obsessed with true crime and social media fame. Set in the fictional town of Rosedale, the film explores themes of friendship, ambition, and the lengths individuals will go to achieve notoriety.

Plot Summary

The story follows McKayla and Sadie as they run a true crime blog called Tragedy Girls, where they document local murders and sensationalize crime stories to attract followers. Their obsession leads them to capture a serial killer, Lowell Orson Lehmann, hoping to gain insights from him to enhance their blog's content. However, their plan takes unexpected turns as they navigate the consequences of their actions.

Critical Reception

Upon its premiere at the South by Southwest festival on March 12, 2017, Tragedy Girls garnered attention for its unique blend of horror and comedy. The film received an 85% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, based on 72 reviews, with an average rating of 7/10. Critics noted that the film effectively injects familiar teen tropes with contemporary commentary and dark humor, making it an entertaining diversion.

Thematic Elements

The film explores several themes, including:

1. Social Media Influence: The characters' obsession with gaining followers highlights the impact of social media on personal identity and morality.
2. Friendship: The dynamic between McKayla and Sadie showcases the complexities of teenage friendships, particularly when ambition and fame come into play.
3. Morality: The film raises questions about the ethics of exploiting tragedy for personal gain, prompting viewers to reflect on their own consumption of true crime media.
4. Dark Humor: The use of pitch-black humor serves to both entertain and provoke thought, making the film a commentary on societal desensitization to violence.

Character Analysis

McKayla and Sadie are portrayed as ambitious yet morally ambiguous characters. Their willingness to manipulate situations for their gain raises questions about the nature of their friendship and the consequences of their actions. The character of Lowell Orson Lehmann serves as a foil to the girls, representing the darker side of obsession and the dangers of idolizing violence.

Conclusion

Tragedy Girls stands out as a unique entry in the horror-comedy genre, offering a fresh perspective on the intersection of youth culture and true crime. Its blend of humor and commentary resonates with audiences, making it a relevant film for contemporary viewers. As society continues to grapple with the implications of social media and the consumption of violent content, Tragedy Girls provides an entertaining yet thought-provoking lens through which to examine these issues.